Democracies and Republics Between Past and Future: From the Athenian Agora to e-Democracy, from the Roman Republic to Negative Power

Democracies and Republics Between Past and Future explores the concepts of direct rule by the people in early and classical Athens and the tribunician negative power in early republican Rome, and examines current political issues in our society. It guides readers through the current constitutional systems in the Western world and looks to the past for answers to the decline of the nexus between 'elections and 'democracy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 122 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Democracies and Republics Between Past and Future delves into the concepts of direct rule by the people in early and classical Athens and the tribunician negative power in early republican Rome, offering a comprehensive exploration of current political issues within our society. Through this lens, the book examines the decline of the nexus between elections and democracy, guiding readers through the current constitutional systems in the Western world. It then turns its gaze to the past, examining early and classical Athens and, ultimately, early republican Rome, in search of answers for the future.

In discussing Athens, the book explores the notion of an authentic "power of the people" that extends beyond mere voting and encompasses something distinct from representation. It sheds light on how Athens achieved a sense of collective authority and influence through various mechanisms, such as public assemblies, participatory decision-making processes, and the role of citizens in governance.

On the other hand, the examples of Rome demonstrate the significance of institutionalized mechanisms of dialogic conflict between competing powers. The book highlights how the tribunician power, characterized by the authority of a single individual or group, played a crucial role in mediating disputes and maintaining stability in the early republican government.

This book appeals to scholars of legal history, both contemporary and ancient, as well as classicists, and to a broader audience interested in politics and history. Its insights into the dynamics of democratic and republican systems provide valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing contemporary societies. By examining the past, we can gain a deeper understanding of the forces that shape our political landscape and work towards building more resilient and inclusive democracies for the future.

Weight: 284g
Dimension: 143 x 223 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367672591