Radical Democracy

This text addresses the loss of faith in conventional party politics, and argues for new ways of thinking about diversity, liberty and civic responsibility.
This text addresses the loss of faith in conventional party politics, and argues for new ways of thinking about diversity, liberty, and civic responsibility. Long debated in political circles, "radical democracy" as discussed here becomes interdisciplinary. The cultural and social theorists in this book broaden the discussion beyond the conventional and conservative rhetoric by investigating the applicability of radical democracy in the United States. Issues debated include whether democracy is primarily a form of decision making or an instrument of popular empowerment; whether democracy constitutes an abstract ideal or an achievable goal; and how "radical" a democracy is preferable in a nation like the US. The contributors include well-known voices in social and cultural theory today - a diverse group of intellectuals, grassroots activists, and academics involved in identity-based movements. They often disagree. What they share is the belief in political possibility and the perception that change is attainable.