Legislature by Lot: Transformative Designs for Deliberative Governance

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Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 19 April 2019
Publisher: Verso Books

Democracy, a concept that holds the essence of people's rule, paradoxically finds itself delegating the majority of rule-making authority
decisions to a political class. This gap between the public and its representatives in the modern world can seem insurmountable, creating a sense of detachment and distrust. However, in the pages of "Legislature by Lot," John Gastil and Erik Olin Wright present an intriguing solution: a legislature chosen through sortition, the random selection of lay citizens. This concept has captured the attention of democratic reformers worldwide, sparking debates and proposals in countries such as Australia, Belgium, Iceland, the United Kingdom, and many others.

Sortition, a term derived from the Latin word "sortes," meaning "chance," promises to bridge this gap and transform the landscape of democratic governance. By introducing a sortition body into a bicameral legislature, Gastil and Wright propose a unique blend of representative and direct democracy. Gastil, a renowned scholar in deliberative democracy, and Wright, a distinguished sociologist and series editor of the Real Utopias books, have assembled a diverse group of critics and advocates of sortition in this volume. Their collective expertise spans ancient Athens, deliberative polling, political theory, social movements, and civic innovation, providing a comprehensive examination of sortition's potential and limitations.

The essays included in "Legislature by Lot" offer a rich tapestry of ideas and perspectives on implementing sortition. Some essays compare it to contemporary reforms, highlighting its potential as a dramatic extension of deliberative minipublics. These minipublics gather random samples of citizens to weigh public policy dilemmas without the authority. They aim to enhance citizen participation and promote informed decision-making, but they are not empowered to enact legislation.

Another set of essays delves into the democratic principles underlying sortition. Scholars explore the idea of popular sovereignty, the notion that power should ultimately belong to the people, and argue that sortition aligns with these principles. They discuss the importance of representation, the role of political parties, and the potential for sortition to promote inclusivity and diversity in the legislature.

Throughout the book, Gastil and Wright provide a clear and concise introduction to sortition, its historical roots, and its potential applications in modern politics. They offer a balanced perspective, acknowledging the limitations and challenges associated with this approach while highlighting its transformative potential. The authors also provide a roadmap for implementing sortition, including considerations for constitutional amendments, legal frameworks, and the necessary institutional changes.

"Legislature by Lot" is a thought-provoking and timely book that offers a fresh perspective on democratic governance. It challenges traditional notions of representation and power and presents a compelling case for a more inclusive and democratic system. The diverse range of voices and ideas presented in this volume contribute to a deeper understanding of sortition and its potential to reshape modern politics. Whether one agrees with the proposed solution or not, this book encourages readers to engage in meaningful discussions and consider alternative approaches to democratic reform.

In conclusion, "Legislature by Lot" is a must-read for anyone interested in democratic governance and the pursuit of a more inclusive and representative system. It provides a comprehensive examination of sortition, its historical roots, democratic principles, and potential applications in modern politics. By presenting a diverse range of perspectives and ideas, Gastil and Wright have sparked a renewed interest in this concept and its potential to transform the way we think about democracy and governance. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, this book offers a valuable roadmap for building a more democratic and equitable society.

Weight: 664g
Dimension: 233 x 151 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788736084