Democracy in Hard Places

The last fifteen years have witnessed a democratic recession, with ultra-nationalist and populist leaders threatening well-established democracies. Democracy in Hard Places by Scott Mainwaring and Tarek Masoud explores how democracies survive in unexpected places, offering nine case studies of democratic longevity. The book argues that social science theories should be revised to account for the persistence of democracy in hard places.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 04 October 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The past fifteen years have seen a concerning trend towards democratic decline, with once-stable democracies facing threats from the rise of ultra-nationalist and populist leaders who prioritize their own interests over the will of the people. Hungary, Poland, Brazil, and even the United States have all experienced this phenomenon, raising concerns about the future of democratic governance. The possibility of democratic collapse in unexpected places has added urgency to the ongoing inquiry into how democracies can be sustained once achieved.

In their book "Democracy in Hard Places," Scott Mainwaring and Tarek Masoud bring together a distinguished group of contributors to explore the resilience of democracies in challenging circumstances. The book challenges the notion that well-established, Western, educated, industrialized, and rich democracies are immortal and highlights the surprising successes of democracies that lack these characteristics. The authors argue that we can learn valuable lessons from democratic survivals that were just as unexpected as the democratic erosions that have occurred in some parts of the developed world.

Social scientists for decades believed that certain enabling conditions, such as social cohesion, economic stability, and strong institutions, were necessary for democracy to thrive. However, the book showcases nine case studies of countries that defied these expectations and achieved and maintained democracy despite facing various challenges. These countries include Ghana, Indonesia, South Africa, Ukraine, Taiwan, and Colombia, among others.

The authors examine the factors that contributed to the survival and persistence of these unlikely democracies. They explore the role of political leadership, the importance of civil society organizations, the influence of regional and international actors, and the resilience of the people themselves. The book also discusses the challenges that these democracies continue to face, such as economic inequality, political polarization, and the threat of authoritarianism.

One of the key insights of the book is that democracy is not a fixed entity but a dynamic process that can adapt and evolve to meet changing circumstances. The authors argue that democracies can thrive even in the face of economic crisis, ethnic heterogeneity, and state weakness. They highlight the importance of inclusive political institutions, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights as key ingredients for democratic sustainability.

The book also raises important questions about the role of the international community in supporting democratic development. The authors argue that the international community should prioritize promoting democratic values and institutions rather than solely focusing on economic interests. They suggest that international aid, diplomacy, and support should be tailored to support democratic transitions, strengthen democratic institutions, and promote human rights.

In conclusion, "Democracy in Hard Places" is a thought-provoking and important book that sheds light on the resilience of democracies in challenging circumstances. The book challenges the conventional wisdom about the prerequisites for democratic success and highlights the surprising achievements of democracies that defy these expectations. By examining the factors that contribute to democratic survival and persistence, the book provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing democracies today. The book's call for the international community to prioritize democratic development and support is timely and crucial, as the future of democracy depends on the collective efforts of governments, civil society organizations, and individuals.

Weight: 432g
Dimension: 235 x 155 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197598764