Understandings of Democracy: Origins and Consequences Beyond Western Democracies

The popularity of democracy is puzzling, given that most people love it and politicians have to live with it. Jie Lu and Yun-han Chu argue that mass attitudes and behaviors are greatly affected by how people understand democracy, and that popular conceptions of democracy are shaped by surrounding socioeconomic and political contexts. This distinct understanding of democracy drives political participation in different ways.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 24 March 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The emergence of authoritarian populism and the waning trust in democratic institutions have sparked widespread assertions that democracy is facing a crisis. Despite this, democracy remains the dominant discourse in contemporary politics, with limited viable alternatives. Few authoritarian leaders openly denounce democracy; instead, they often present their regimes as democratic. Public opinion surveys reveal that ordinary citizens continue to hold a profound appreciation for democracy, even in societies with limited democratic practices.

The puzzle surrounding the crisis of democracy arises from the widespread popularity of democracy. If most people cherish democracy and politicians are compelled to govern within its framework (whether they approve of it or not), how can democracy be in trouble? Moreover, if people derive immense value from democracy, why would they harbor disdain for authoritarian leaders and regimes, or even join the advocates of democracy in rebelling against authoritarianism? To address these perplexing questions, Understandings of Democracy delves into the practices of political elites and the key dynamics that shape mass attitudes and behaviors. Jie Lu and Yun-han Chu argue that the understanding of democracy holds significant influence over mass attitudes and behaviors. Specifically, they make the following assertions:

People possess diverse conceptions of democracy; popular perceptions of democracy are profoundly shaped by the surrounding socioeconomic and political contexts; these varying conceptions generate distinct baselines for individuals to evaluate democratic practices and form their perspectives on democracy; and these distinct conceptions also drive different modes of political participation.

Understanding these arguments is crucial in comprehending the dynamics that underpin the crisis of democracy and the factors that shape public attitudes toward democratic institutions. By examining the diverse understandings of democracy, the impact of socioeconomic and political contexts on popular conceptions, and the diverse ways in which these conceptions drive political engagement, we can gain a deeper insight into the challenges and opportunities facing democracy in the contemporary world.

Weight: 448g
Dimension: 244 x 160 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197570401