Democracy in Britain / / Matt Cole.

• Superior document: Title is part of eBook package: De Gruyter Edinburgh University Press Backlist eBook-Package 2013-2000
• VerfasserIn: Cole, Matt,
• Place / Publishing House: Edinburgh : : Edinburgh University Press, , [2022]; ©2006
• Year of Publication: 2022
• Language: English
• Series: Politics Study Guides : PSG
• Physical Description: 1 online resource (192 p.)

This textbook brings together an introduction to the political theory of democracy since Ancient times and a critical picture of its place in Britain today.The author examines the work of Plato and Aristotle, Rousseau and Mill, Marx and Weber, and locates them and others in the debate about what democracy means. He then scrutinises Britain's claim to be a developing democracy, from the power of the Prime Minister and the role of political parties to the influence of pressure groups and the media, as well as recent constitutional changes.In the context of declining public trust in political institutions and increasing reluctance to vote, crucial questions are tackled: do we have a democracy, and why does it matter?Key Features:A wide-ranging, accessible introduction to the place of Democracy in Britain todayDivided into two halves: on democratic theory (reflecting its history, development, and key concepts) and democratic practice (examining political institutions)Offers examples of documentary material to illustrate the ideas presentedUp-to-date: includes material written after the 2005 General Election

Table of Contents

Frontmatter -- Contents -- Boxes -- Introduction -- PART I: THEORY -- CHAPTER 1 Representation, Liberty and Democracy -- CHAPTER 2 The Origins of Democracy -- CHAPTER 3 The Emergence of Representative Democracy -- PART II: PRACTICE -- CHAPTER 4 The Westminster Model -- CHAPTER 5 Critiques of British Democracy -- CHAPTER 6 The Remedies -- CHAPTER 7 Conclusion: The Puzzle of Participation -- References -- Index