Revolutionary Constitutions: Charismatic Leadership and the Rule of Law

Bruce Ackerman, a renowned constitutional scholar, argues in his book "Revolutionary Constitutions" that democratic populism is not a threat to democracy but a way to confer legitimacy to citizens and institutions. He provides a blow-by-blow account of the tribulations that confronted popular movements in their insurgent campaigns for constitutional democracy in India, South Africa, Italy, France, Poland, Burma, Israel, and Iran. Ackerman also returns to the United States to provide new insights into the Founders acts of constitutional statesmanship.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 432 pages
\n Publication date: 13 May 2019
\n Publisher: Harvard University Press
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Populism is often portrayed as a threat to democratic societies, a tool in the hands of demagogues and reactionary groups, as its critics would have us believe. However, Bruce Ackerman, a renowned constitutional scholar, challenges this notion in his award-winning trilogy, "We the People." Through a comprehensive examination spanning a quarter century of scholarship, Ackerman delves into the origins, successes, and challenges of revolutionary constitutionalism across the globe.

In this essential and surprising inquiry, Ackerman takes readers on a journey to India, South Africa, Italy, France, Poland, Burma, Israel, and Iran, providing a detailed account of the struggles faced by popular movements as they sought to establish constitutional democracies. Despite their diverse backgrounds and circumstances, populist leaders like Nehru, Mandela, and de Gaulle encountered similar dilemmas at pivotal moments in their insurgent campaigns.

What sets these leaders apart is their approach to power. Instead of relying on their charismatic authority to maintain control, they used their influence to confer legitimacy on the citizens and institutions of constitutional democracy. Ackerman highlights this crucial aspect, emphasizing that these leaders recognized the importance of building a strong foundation of trust and respect among the populace.

In his final chapter, Ackerman returns to the United States to offer fresh insights into the acts of constitutional statesmanship displayed by the Founders. He examines how they faced similar challenges to those confronting populist leaders today and how they navigated through them. In the current political climate, where the democratic system faces threats from within and without, it is more important than ever for ordinary citizens to rally to its defense.

Revolutionary Constitutions provides valuable lessons for activists and advocates working towards democratic transformation. It showcases the successes and failures of past movements, allowing activists to learn from their predecessors and avoid repeating the same mistakes. By studying the strategies employed by successful revolutionaries, Ackerman aims to empower individuals and groups to build momentum and drive revolutionary change.

This inquiry sets the stage for Ackerman's upcoming volume, which will explore how elites and insiders co-opt and undermine the momentum of revolutionary movements. By examining the dynamics between these groups and the grassroots movements, Ackerman aims to provide insights into the challenges faced by democratic societies.

In conclusion, "Revolutionary Constitutions" is a thought-provoking and indispensable contribution to the study of constitutionalism and democracy. Bruce Ackerman's comprehensive analysis challenges the prevailing narratives surrounding populism and offers a fresh perspective on the power of popular movements. Through his meticulous research and insightful analysis, Ackerman empowers readers to understand the complexities of constitutionalism and the importance of citizen engagement in the defense of democratic societies.

\n Weight: 844g\n
Dimension: 166 x 241 x 36 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780674970687\n \n