Hyperdemocracy - by S Welch (Hardcover)

About the Book

"What is the future of democracy? Is it steadily improving, in scope and depth? Or is it being marginalized by economic forces? Or - a view not now very often heard - has it already progressed too far? This book argues that none of these assessments is right, and instead that democracy is becoming "hyper." An increasingly well educated citizenry, and freer flow of information, contribute to the intensification of democracy, but at the same time begin to impede decision-making by contesting more and more of the cognitive preconditions that decision-making rests upon. Under hyperdemocracy, democracy begins to undermine itself. The book applies the idea of "reflexive modernization" to democratic theory, setting out a new perspective on the challenges democracy faces"--

Book Synopsis

This book argues that a well-educated citizenry and freer flow of information has contributed to a state of "hyperdemocracy" which impedes itself. This book applies the idea of 'reflexive modernization' to democratic theory, setting out a new perspective on the challenges democracy faces.

Review Quotes

Praise to come.

About the Author

Stephen Welch is Lecturer in Politics at the School of Government and International Affairs, Durham University, UK. He is the author of The Concept of Political Culture and The Theory of Political Culture, as well as various articles and chapters on political culture, political scandal, and aspects of American politics.