Prefigurative Democracy: Protest, Social Movements and the Political Institution of Society

This book develops a theory of prefigurative democracy to understand contemporary protest movements. It combines an analysis of activist practices with state-of-the-art and canonical radical theory to show how prefigurative politics can create a more just and equitable society.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 31 December 2022
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

In the aftermath of protest movements like Occupy Wall Street and the Spanish 15-M movement, the past decade has witnessed a growing fascination with prefigurative politics. This refers to the endeavors of activists to establish or actualize their vision of an ideal future society within their own movements and practices. By delving into the concept and its historical context, this book develops a radical-democratic theory of prefiguration. Building upon the insights of political theorists ranging from Hannah Arendt to Ernesto Laclau, Claude Lefort, Rosa Luxemburg, and Judith Butler, Van de Sande uncovers the profound and democratic significance of protest and social movements in contemporary society. He offers diverse accounts of how prefigurative practices and movements can maintain political relevance even after they have concluded.

The book begins by introducing the key aspects of a theoretical debate on prefigurative politics and contemporary protest movements. It explores the concept of prefiguration as a way of thinking critically about contemporary protest movements. The author then develops a theory of prefigurative democracy as a framework for analyzing these movements. By engaging with the work of various radical political theorists, the book combines an analysis of activist practices with both state-of-the-art and canonical radical theory. This approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics and complexities of contemporary protest movements.

Throughout the book, the author emphasizes the importance of recognizing the transformative potential of prefigurative practices and movements. He argues that these practices and movements can challenge dominant power structures, promote social justice, and create alternative visions of society. By highlighting the role of imagination and creativity in these processes, the book encourages activists and scholars to think beyond traditional modes of analysis and to explore new avenues for political change.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the study of prefigurative politics and contemporary protest movements. By developing a radical-democratic theory of prefiguration, the author provides a framework for thinking critically about these movements and their potential for political transformation. Through its engagement with the work of various radical political theorists, the book combines an analysis of activist practices with state-of-the-art and canonical radical theory. This approach offers a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics and complexities of contemporary protest movements and their role in shaping the future of society.

Weight: 472g
Dimension: 161 x 240 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474451857