Swiss Democracy: Possible Solutions to Conflict in Multicultural Societies

by Wolf Linder

This open access book provides an updated and fully revised 4th edition of this authoritative analysis of Swiss democracy. It particularly explains the institutions of federalism and consensus government through political power sharing. In this new edition, the authors also address several important changes and challenges that have affected Swiss democracy, including the country's relationship with the EU, fiscal equalisation, direct democracy and the legitimacy of national referendums, territorial conflict, as well as the polarisation of party politics.

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction

318 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1994

Reviews

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was not the sort of book you stay up past your bedtime for, but it was a thorough explanation of how democracy works in Switzerland, and how it came to be. The author also honestly examined its good and bad points and how different aspects of the Swiss system are being used , or could be used, elsewhere.

[Logan Streondj · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very thoroughly researched book about Swiss democracy with many citations and sources. I learned about the Canton system and the aspects of direct democracy and electoral democracy how they differ, compliment and interact with each other.
Learned about some of the benefits and downsides of the Swiss system.
Overall is a good book explaining the Swiss system.

[Andrew Roxby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent overview of the current structure of Swiss democracy, in my mind possibly the most elegant extant democratic system. Clear, well written and comprehensive.

[John Conway · Rating 4 out of 5]

How a United Ireland would probably work if it happens