Democracy: Brief Books about Big Ideas

Tænkepauser #48

by Svend-Erik Skaaning

A short but engaging look at democracy: what it is, how it compares to other forms of rule, and why it makes a difference. What is democracy? And even if it can be defined, can true democracy ever be achieved? Without a definition, dictators can pose as democrats and the oppressed can see despotism as the answer to their prayers. But true democracy, author Svend-Erik Skaaning argues, will not automatically solve the world's problems. It is contentious and unfair, even as it keeps tyrants at bay. In Democracy , Skaaning defines democracy, charts its rise, revival, and resurgence across history and nations, and discusses when democracy has made a difference―and when and why it has failed. Reflections In Reflections, a series copublished with Denmark's Aarhus University Press, scholars deliver 60-page reflections on a key concept that encapsulates their years of study and research. These books present unique insights on a wide range of topics and concepts―everything from love, trust, and play to corruption, welfare, and sleep―that entertain and enlighten readers with exciting discoveries and new perspectives.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Politics

60 pages, Paperback

Published July 12, 2022

Reviews

[Deniz Yılmazer · Rating 2 out of 5]

For a book that claims to look at and define democracy critically, it really does not meet the bar. Many arguments are stated but no real deep dive into anything. I get that it’s hard to fit a lot of content in the limited space but then maybe publicize as a intro to the idea instead of a critique.

[SVRosenmeier · Rating 4 out of 5]

God og indsigtsfuld, som de fleste andre Tænkepauser

[EvaLovesYA · Rating 3 out of 5]

Læst i forbindelse med et praktikforløb på Aarhus Universitetsforlag.