Psychology of Democracy: Of the People, By the People, For the People

Democracy was forged in the furnaces of oppression, and this book brings together scholars from psychology, political science, communication, sociology, education, and psychiatry to understand political thoughts and behaviors. It examines the psychological factors experienced by politicians, the political institutions and systems devised by those we elect, and the factors that influence the context for us as citizens.

Format: Hardback
Length: 350 pages
Publication date: 03 March 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Democracy, a profound and resilient concept, emerged from the crucibles of adversity, whether it was in the struggle against tyranny or the defense of individual rights. In the face of mounting threats to democracy across the globe, there has never been a more pressing imperative to delve into the intricacies of political thought and behavior. This comprehensive and accessible book brings together a distinguished group of scholars from diverse fields, including psychology, political science, communication, sociology, education, and psychiatry. The book's structure, inspired by Abraham Lincoln's renowned phrase "Of, by, and for the people," examines the psychological dynamics experienced by politicians as representatives of the electorate, the political institutions and systems crafted by the elected, and the societies that shape the context in which we as citizens operate. Spanning from the realm of trust to risk, from political values to moral and religious priorities, from the personality and language of leaders to the perils of fake news and anti-democratic forces, this book offers invaluable new insights for researchers, policymakers, and citizens alike. By exploring these critical dimensions, we gain a deeper understanding of the forces that shape our democratic world and the tools necessary to safeguard and strengthen it for generations to come.

ISBN-13: 9781108477758