Modern Isonomy: Democratic Participation and Human Rights Protection as a System of Equal Rights

Western societies have transformed from hierarchical to participatory and protective of human rights, according to Gerald Stourzh's isonomy. He argues that individual rights, including the right to participate in politics equally, should be clearly defined and possessed by all. Progress has been uneven, with particular attention to the equalization of slaves, peasants, women, Jews, and indigenous people.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 14 December 2021
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

Western societies have undergone a remarkable transformation since the eighteenth century, evolving into societies characterized by two fundamental features: participatory democracy and the protection of human rights. This transformative shift has been encapsulated by the term "isonomy," coined by renowned political theorist Gerald Stourzh. In his book "Modern Isonomy," Stourzh argues that the ideal is a state and, indeed, a world where individual rights, including the right to participate in politics equally, are clearly defined and possessed by all.

Stourzh begins his exploration by contrasting isonomy, associated with the rule of the many, with gradated societies, oligarchies, and monarchies. He then delves into the American experiment with the development of representative democracy and the French Revolution, which proclaimed that all people are born and remain free and with equal rights. While progress on the creation and protection of rights for all has been uneven, Stourzh discusses in detail the equalization of slaves, peasants, women, Jews, and indigenous people. He demonstrates how deeply intertwined the protection of equal rights is with the development of democracy and gives particular attention to the development of constitutional adjudication, notably the constitutional complaint of individuals.

Furthermore, Stourzh explores the international protection of human rights, recognizing the importance of global cooperation in safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals. Modern Isonomy is a timely and thought-provoking exploration of political and human rights, offering a comprehensive and erudite perspective on the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and individuals committed to building a more inclusive and equitable world.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 159 x 236 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226811628