Republicanism and Democracy: Close Friends?

This book explores the relationship between democracy and republicanism, challenging the notion that they are mutually exclusive and examining how they can be complementary or contradictory ideals. It will appeal to students, researchers, and scholars of political science interested in understanding political theory and history better.

Format: Hardback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 29 November 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

The rediscovery of classic republicanism a few decades ago has shed light on the profound influence that the republican tradition has had on modern notions of democracy. However, defining these two concepts remains challenging, and opinions on their relationship diverge widely. The overarching aim of this book is to explore the extent to which democracy and republicanism are identical, complementary, or mutually contradicting ideals. By adopting an open approach to the subject, we will challenge the widely accepted formula that modern democracy is composed of liberal principles such as individualism, the rule of law, and human rights, on the one hand, and republican principles such as focusing on the common good and popular sovereignty, on the other.

This book will appeal to students, researchers, and scholars of political science who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of political theory and political history.

The study of democracy and republicanism has a rich and complex history, dating back to ancient times. In ancient Greece, for example, the concept of democracy was associated with direct citizen participation in government, while republicanism emphasized the rule. In Rome, the Roman Republic was a form of government that combined elements of democracy and republicanism, with citizens elected to represent their interests and vote on legislation.

During the Middle Ages, the concept of democracy was largely replaced by feudalism, with kings and lords ruling over their subjects. However, the idea of republicanism continued to inspire political thinkers and movements, such as the American Revolution and the French Revolution.

In the modern era, democracy has become the dominant form of government in many parts of the world. However, republicanism has also seen a resurgence in recent years, with some political theorists arguing that it offers a more effective and sustainable form of government than democracy.

One of the key debates in the study of democracy and republicanism is whether these two concepts are compatible or contradictory. Some argue that democracy and republicanism are fundamentally incompatible, with democracy emphasizing individual rights and republicanism emphasizing the common good. Others argue that these two concepts can be complementary, with democracy providing the framework for individual rights and republicanism providing the framework for collective decision-making.

Another debate in the study of democracy and republicanism is the extent to which these two concepts are compatible with each other. Some argue that democracy and republicanism are inherently conflicting, with democracy requiring a strong central government to protect individual rights, while republicanism requires a decentralized government that gives more power to local communities. Others argue that these two concepts can be reconciled, with democratic governments implementing policies that promote the common good and republican governments implementing policies that protect individual rights.

The study of democracy and republicanism is also important in understanding the political dynamics of different countries and regions. For example, some countries have adopted democratic systems that are characterized by a strong central government, while others have adopted republican systems that are characterized by a decentralized government and greater power to local communities. Understanding the differences between these two systems can help policymakers and political leaders develop more effective and sustainable policies.

In conclusion, the study of democracy and republicanism is a complex and important field of study that has a rich and complex history. While there are many debates and disagreements about the compatibility and contradictions between these two concepts, it is clear that they continue to shape the political landscape of the world. By gaining a deeper understanding of these two concepts, we can develop more effective and sustainable policies that promote individual rights and the common good.

Weight: 535g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031157790
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023