Strong Democracy: Participatory Politics for a New Age

by Benjamin R. Barber

Examines the impact of liberalism on democratic government and argues that the participation of citizens in government is necessary for the survival of democracy

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction, Political Science, Academic

336 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1984

About the author

American political theorist perhaps best known for his 1996 bestseller, Jihad vs. McWorld.

Reviews

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good critiques, weaker solution.

[Justin Yeary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although I fundamentally disagree with Barber's conclusions, he makes a pretty strong case as for why we need to return to a communitarian lifestyle and re-embrace democracy, and why a sense of civic duty needs to be restored in people. The first half of the book is dedicated to critquing liberal democracy, however there are many flaws in his reasoning in this part. The second part lays out the framework for his political system of "Strong Democracy". Overall it's a very interesting political read and I'd suggest it to anyone regardless of their views

[Alex · Rating 2 out of 5]

Diagnosis is fine. Prescription wouldn’t treat the diagnosis. “Things will be good because they will be good.”