Democracy

This book deals with a phenomenon which is now being dis cussed in many parts of the world. After decades of totalitarian or authoritarian rule, democracy has been restored or established for the first time in a number of countries. The transition to democracy and the consolidation of democracy are not easy processes. For this very reason some hesitation exists with regard to the use of the term 'democracy' without adding qualifying adjectives such as 'real' or 'genuine'. Although some people consider themselves to be 'absolute democrats' in word and deed, many questions concerning democracy are asked by specialists as well as by ordinary people. What is democracy? Are elections sufficient to guarantee the existence of democratic government? Is the principle of majority rule sufficient to ensure democracy? What happens when a properly assembled majority makes regular decisions which harm a minority? Is a unique model of democracy suitable for all countries? Are there rules which are indispensable for all models of democracy? This book, written by Jean Baechler, professor at the University of the Sorbonne in Paris and author of several works on this subject, analyses in depth the nature of democracy which is, without any doubt, complex and multi-dimensional.

The analytical approach proposed by the author encourages further reflection on all democracy-related problems and pro vides a solid theoretical background for contemporary discus sion. This book is therefore of interest to specialists as well as all those who are striving for the consolidation of democracy in their own countries and throughout the world.