Technocratic Politics: Beyond Democratic Society?

This book explores the role of experts and expertise in contemporary politics, considering the impact of digitalization and technique on governance practices. It examines the relationship between social elites and technology, highlighting the threat to representative democracy and suggesting new forms of political-economic regime. It is a valuable resource for scholars of sociology and politics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate interplay between experts and expertise in contemporary politics, exploring the profound ways in which digitalization and the application of techniques are reshaping the practices of governance. It raises thought-provoking questions about the potential consequences of the COVID-19 crisis on these processes and examines their impact on the future of democracy. The book challenges the notion of technocracy as an alternative to politics, advocating for a more inclusive and democratic approach to decision-making. By examining the relationship between social elites and technique, this volume highlights the threat posed to representative democracy in the globalized world and reflects upon emerging forms of the political-economic regime. This book is a valuable resource for scholars of sociology and politics who are interested in exploring power dynamics, governance structures, and representation issues. It offers insightful perspectives and empirical evidence to deepen our understanding of these critical topics and contribute to the ongoing debate about the future of democracy.

Introduction:
In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary politics, the role of experts and expertise has become increasingly significant. As digitalization and the use of techniques continue to transform the ways in which governments operate, it is crucial to examine their impact on governance practices and their potential consequences for the future of democracy. This book aims to explore these issues in depth, asking whether the COVID-19 crisis is likely to further advance or weaken these processes, and examining their impact on the future of democracy.
The Role of Experts and Expertise in Contemporary Politics:
Experts and expertise play a vital role in shaping policy decisions and implementing government programs. They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, which can help policymakers make informed decisions and implement effective policies. However, the increasing reliance on experts and expertise has also raised concerns about the democratic legitimacy of decision-making.
Digitalization and the Use of Techniques:
Digitalization has revolutionized the way governments operate, enabling them to collect and analyze vast amounts of data and use advanced technologies to improve efficiency and effectiveness. Techniques such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning have become increasingly prevalent in governance, allowing governments to make more informed decisions and respond to crises more quickly.
The Impact of Digitalization and Techniques on Governance:
The impact of digitalization and techniques on governance is multifaceted. On the one hand, they have enabled governments to improve their ability to deliver services and respond to the needs of their citizens. For example, digital technologies have made it easier for governments to provide healthcare, education, and social welfare services to their citizens. They have also enabled governments to monitor and regulate public behavior, reducing crime and promoting public safety.
However, the use of techniques also raises concerns about the erosion of democratic values and the concentration of power in the hands of a few. Digitalization and techniques can be used to monitor and control citizens, limiting their freedom of expression and privacy. They can also be used to manipulate public opinion and influence political outcomes, leading to the erosion of democratic norms and the decline of trust in government.
The COVID-19 Crisis and its Implications for Experts and Expertise:
The COVID-19 crisis has further highlighted the role of experts and expertise in governance. Governments have relied heavily on medical experts and public health officials to develop and implement policies to combat the pandemic. However, the crisis has also exposed the limitations of expertise and the need for a more inclusive and democratic approach to decision-making.
The Future of Democracy and the Role of Experts and Expertise:
The future of democracy is closely linked to the role of experts and expertise. While experts and expertise can provide valuable insights and knowledge, they must be used in a way that respects democratic values and promotes the participation of citizens. Governments must ensure that decision-making processes are transparent, accountable, and inclusive, allowing citizens to have a say in the policies that affect their lives.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book explores the complex relationship between experts and expertise in contemporary politics, highlighting the ways in which digitalization and the use of techniques are transforming governance practices. It raises important questions about the potential consequences of these processes on the future of democracy and advocates for a more inclusive and democratic approach to decision-making. By examining the relationship between social elites and technique, this volume highlights the threat posed to representative democracy in the globalized world and reflects upon emerging forms of the political-economic regime. This book is a valuable resource for scholars of sociology and politics who are interested in exploring power dynamics, governance structures, and representation issues. It offers insightful perspectives and empirical evidence to deepen our understanding of these critical topics and contribute to the ongoing debate about the future of democracy.

Weight: 214g
Dimension: 144 x 223 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032109251