This book is under my reading lenses these days. Though not directly referring to Pakistan but the book, as if, s a case study of Pakistan's political system. The key take-aways of the book are as follows: 1. **Erosion of norms**: The authors argue that democracies often die not through sudden coups or revolutions, but through the gradual erosion of democratic norms and institutions. 2. **Political polarization**: They highlight how increasing polarization within societies can weaken democratic systems by fostering a winner-takes-all mentality and undermining cooperation across party lines. 3. **Weak institutions**: Democracies are vulnerable when their institutions, such as the judiciary and media, are weak or co-opted by political leaders, leading to a lack of checks and balances. 4. **Authoritarian leaders**: Levitsky and Ziblatt explore how charismatic and authoritarian leaders can exploit democratic processes to consolidate power and undermine democratic principles. 5. **Enabling conditions**: The book identifies certain enabling conditions for the erosion of democracy, including economic inequality, social divisions, and the breakdown of traditional political parties. 6. **Role of civil society**: They emphasize the crucial role of civil society in defending democracy, highlighting the importance of activism, independent media, and grassroots movements in holding leaders accountable. 7. **Global trends**: The authors draw parallels between the erosion of democracy in different countries, suggesting that certain global trends, such as the rise of populism and nationalism, contribute to democratic decline worldwide. 8. **Preventative measures**: Despite the grim outlook, the book offers suggestions for preventing democratic decay, including strengthening democratic institutions, promoting civic education, and fostering a culture of democratic norms and values. Overall, "Why Democracies Die" provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges facing democracies and offers valuable insights into how to protect and strengthen democratic systems.
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The author J. Dhopte will be releasing his third book on 14th April 2024 named – WHO IS KILLING DEMOCRACY? This book is based on long research and in-depth exploration of the dynamic relationship between the states and corporations, which has changed sharply with the rise of globalisation. It shows the impact of the corporate power over people’s lives. It not only raises questions about the future of democracy but also offers various solutions for protecting and saving democracy, and various ways to defeat the corporatocracy. In order to rule effectively, the people need political knowledge. If they know little or nothing about the government, it becomes difficult to hold political leaders accountable for their performance. Unfortunately, public knowledge about politics is disturbingly low. In addition, the public often does a poor job of evaluating the political information they do know. Political ignorance is deep and widespread. Most of the public has very little idea of how federal spending is actually distributed. They greatly underestimate the percentage that goes to entitlement programs such as healthcare and social security. Public ignorance is not limited to information about specific policies. It also extends to the basic structure of government and how it operates. E books and Paperbacks are available for PRE- ORDER on – INDIA - https://lnkd.in/dYdcqUrs US - https://lnkd.in/djbE4hT5 UK - https://lnkd.in/dfFzv62X AUSTRALIA - https://lnkd.in/dT4Nsh3J MEXICO - https://lnkd.in/d9jUqqsD CANADA - https://lnkd.in/dTbeCzAh BELGIUM - https://lnkd.in/d79iAf-b JAPAN - https://lnkd.in/dmgE44fF NETHERLAND - https://lnkd.in/d-qPp9V2 ITALY - https://lnkd.in/dhHpwPNd SPAIN - https://lnkd.in/dWnfmUMH FRANCE - https://lnkd.in/deeBR6pa DENMARK -https://lnkd.in/d9kTVeFQ NETHERLAND – https://lnkd.in/dMCWHWZe democracy/9300000175668607/ GERMANY - https://lnkd.in/dFe6T5gz https://lnkd.in/dhnbrNWe https://lnkd.in/dhVY4aUJ KOBO - https://lnkd.in/dR7Qs82g KOBO( Japan) - https://lnkd.in/dq2wC_d2 APPLE – https://lnkd.in/dRjCVvZk GOOGLE BOOKS -https://lnkd.in/d7srdDZB SMASHWORDS - https://lnkd.in/dRaPDSid EVERAND - https://lnkd.in/d6rg6mPR VIVLIO (France) - https://lnkd.in/dd_VpkXa BARNES AND NOBLE – https://lnkd.in/dV_9Z6rR... THALIA (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) -https://lnkd.in/dpEVB7nU
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I am thrilled that my paper co-authored with Nick Cowen has just been published in the journal Political Research Quarterly. Titled "Is Public Ignorance a Problem? An Epistemic Defense of Really Existing Democracies", the paper challenges the concepts of epistocracy and technocracy by arguing that it fundamentally misrepresents democracy as a system of knowledge based on aggregation of preferences. Instead, we present our (novel and more realistic) model of political knowledge in conditions of social complexity. Our paper contends that political systems are inherently complex, and therefore all participants, including both experts and ordinary citizens, exhibit a significant degree of ignorance regarding the wide-ranging consequences of policies. We critique the notion that some informed citizens or experts will be more capable of designing or approving effective policies simply because of their level of knowledge or expertise alone. Instead, we argue that political and social systems are characterized by radical dissonance and radical ignorance. Radical dissonance refers to the diverse views and experiences that individuals have regarding policies, leading to varied interpretations, stances and grievances. Radical ignorance acknowledges that nobody, regardless of expertise, can fully comprehend the complex implications of policies over time. Therefore, we posit that democracy, by allowing diverse voices to be heard and providing a mechanism for feedback, as policies are being implemented, offers the most effective means for policymakers to navigate the complexities of governance. https://lnkd.in/dwuECaAx
Is Public Ignorance a Problem? An Epistemic Defense of Really Existing Democracies - Aris Trantidis, Nick Cowen, 2024
journals.sagepub.com
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You are a policy advisor to a United Nations agency dedicated to the cause of “good government.” You are asked to prepare a brief to help them think about this problem by discussing the extent to which “good government” is or should be synonymous with democracy, if at all. Does it presuppose some form of democracy? Can you have good government without democracy? Why or why not? DRAFT/ STUDY TIPS: Introduction The concept of "good government" is foundational to the discourse on political science, governance, and public administration. In its essence, good government encompasses elements such as transparency, accountability, rule of law, inclusiveness, and effective public service delivery. However, the relationship between good government and democracy is complex and multifaceted. This brief aims to critically explore whether good government is synonymous with democracy and if it presupposes some form of democratic governance. Through an in-depth analysis, this paper will argue that while democracy often provides a conducive framework for good government, it is not an absolute prerequisite. Good government can exist in non-democratic regimes, although these instances are rare and often temporary due to inherent structural limitations.
You are a policy advisor to a United Nations agency dedicated to the cause of “good government.”...
apaxresearchers.com
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Bestsellersworld.com has posted a review for Wisdom and the Baobab Tree by Edward R. McMahon Reviewed by Daniel Ryan Johnson Wisdom and the Baobab Tree is a story set in a foreign context that manages to hit close to home for readers in the United States, as well as readers throughout various other parts of the world. Set in the fictional African country of Kombonia, the book explores the struggle of a country to fully embrace democracy. While the nation has been a democracy in name for a few decades when the book begins, true democratic elections have never taken place. Much of the story is told through the eyes of American Adam Edwards, who is in the country working for the Center for Democratic Progress, an independent organization with funding from the U.S. government. The purpose of his mission in Kombonia is to help ensure the elections coming at the end of the year are fair and democratic. He is tasked with sharing the knowledge gained by the U.S. and other nations in their experience with democracy to help create a framework for a true democracy to succeed in Kombonia. While Wisdom and the Baobab Tree portrays a nation that is just beginning its democratic journey, many of the challenges this fledgling democracy faces reflect issues present in U.S. politics, as well as other nations with a long democratic history. Political violence, threats to a peaceful transfer of power, distrust in the electoral process, election interference, and a deep divide between different population groups are key issues addressed throughout the book that many democracies throughout the world are facing today. When drawing these parallels between the challenges regarding democracy in Kombonia and the United States, author Edward R. McMahon takes several different approaches. At some points in the book, these similarities are subtly hinted at, while, at other times, he clearly connects the dots for the reader. While Wisdom and the Baobab Tree shows how challenging it can be to build and maintain a democracy, especially in times where trust in the media and the information we receive is incredibly low, the overall tone of the book is a hopeful one. It shows that while there will always be struggles along the way, there is a path forward, that the checks and balances of the democratic system are necessary to ensure human rights, and that the system must constantly be reevaluated to ensure it works for the modern age.
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Topic: We the People Introduction Embark on a journey through the intricate landscape of American governance with We the People (pdf download). This enlightening book serves as a beacon, guiding readers through the fundamental concepts and institutions that shape the American political system. Plz Visit: https://lnkd.in/d5JGhxz3 Summary We the People (pdf download) stands as a definitive guide to understanding the American government and its political framework. With clarity and precision, the book elucidates key concepts, institutions, and the dynamics of governance. From the separation of powers to the intricacies of federalism, each chapter offers a comprehensive exploration of the principles that underpin American democracy. Delving deeper, readers are introduced to the nuances of the political process, from elections to policy-making. The book navigates through the roles of various branches of government, shedding light on their functions and interdependence. Moreover, it critically examines the limitations and challenges faced by the American political system, fostering a nuanced understanding of its strengths and weaknesses. Conclusion We the People (pdf download) serves as an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to grasp the intricacies of American governance. With its engaging narrative and comprehensive coverage, the book empowers readers to navigate the complexities of the political landscape with confidence.
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I am very excited to see my paper with Nick Cowen published in Political Research Quarterly. We have developed a fine argument that could change the way we define democracy and understand the questions of political knowledge and public ignorance. "Is public ignorance a problem?" We say 'not at all', with a novel argument against criticisms of democracy from 'epistocrats' and 'climate authoritarians". Instead, we show what the true value of democracy is despite prevalent political ignorance among the population. In short, we argue that social systems are complex systems, and in complex systems, everyone, including scientists and experts, are ignorant regarding the full range of consequences of policies. We all act in conditions of 'radical uncertainty'. In addition, politics generates radical dissonance, so even experts, in the hypothetical case that we grant them full knowledge, create and aggravate tensions within a diverse body of interests, values and preferences in society. How democracy helps overcome both radical uncertainty and radical dissonance is what you can read if you click on the link below: https://lnkd.in/dwuECaAx
Is Public Ignorance a Problem? An Epistemic Defense of Really Existing Democracies - Aris Trantidis, Nick Cowen, 2024
journals.sagepub.com
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Pakistan's political system is based on a federal parliamentary republic model, with a democratically elected government and a president as head of state. The country has a history of democratic governance, with periods of military rule and political instability. Concerns about the erosion of democratic institutions and the rise of authoritarianism in Pakistan are linked to various factors, including: - Military influence in politics: The military has played a significant role in Pakistan's politics, with several military interventions and periods of military rule. - Political polarization and instability: Political divisions and conflicts have led to instability and weakened democratic institutions. - Restrictions on civil liberties and freedom of speech: There have been instances of restrictions on freedom of speech, assembly, and the press. - Concentration of power in the executive branch: The executive branch has been criticized for centralizing power and undermining parliamentary democracy. Despite these challenges, Pakistan has: - A vibrant civil society: Active human rights organizations, NGOs, and advocacy groups. - A free press: A diverse and relatively free press, with a strong tradition of investigative journalism. - An independent judiciary: A judiciary that has shown activism in defending democratic values and upholding the rule of law. - Economic development: Significant progress in recent years, with a growing economy and infrastructure development. The transition to a kingdom would require significant changes to Pakistan's constitutional and political framework, which is unlikely in the current political landscape. Pakistan's democratic institutions, civil society, and judiciary are expected to continue playing a crucial role in shaping the country's political future.
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🌟Whitepaper launch! 🌟 Next week, a groundbreaking white paper will be released, commissioned by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Ithaca Initiative: “From Waves to Ecosystems: The Next Stage of Democratic Innovation.” 🌊➡️🌱 Authored by our Co-Executive Director Josh Lerner, this paper explores the evolution of democratic innovation, emphasizing the transition from isolated waves of democratic practices to interconnected ecosystems. 🗓️ Join us for the launch webinar on Wednesday, June 26 at 10 AM ET / 2 PM UTC ! 🚀 🔍 About the Paper: In a time when anti-democratic movements are gaining momentum globally, it's crucial to rethink how we approach democracy. Traditional methods of defending elections, while essential, are no longer sufficient on their own. This white paper delves into how democracy can be renewed: “While in the past, we have built up competing waves of democracy, the next stage of democratic innovation connects different practices into balanced ecosystems.”. 💡 Key Highlights: Historical perspective on democratic innovations over 5,000 years Analysis of current anti-democratic trends and their impact Strategies for building robust democratic ecosystems Insights from global experts ⬇️ 🗣️ Webinar Speakers: 1️⃣ Timothy Shaffer, SNF Ithaca Director and Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Chair of Civil Discourse, Biden School of Public Policy and Administration, University of Delaware (Moderator) 2️⃣ Josh Lerner, Co-Executive Director, People Powered 3️⃣ Carla Bezerra, Director of Digital Participation and Network Communication, Presidency of the Republic of Brazil 4️⃣ Sarah Lister, Head of Governance, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) 5️⃣ Graham Smith, Professor of Politics, Centre for the Study of Democracy, University of Westminster 6️⃣ Celina Su, Inaugural Marilyn J. Gittell Chair in Urban Studies, Graduate Center, The City University of New York 🔗 Register for the webinar now - space is limited! https://lnkd.in/g-U5uHGE Thank you to the Biden School of Public Policy & Administration, University of Delaware for supporting this important work. Let’s come together to discuss the roadmap for the next stage of democratic innovation. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of a pivotal conversation! #DemocraticInnovation #ParticipatoryDemocracy #PeoplePowered #WhitePaper #SNFIthaca #Governance
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The Constitution is 4,543 words long; you can read the whole thing in 15 minutes. Yet this brief text—plus its still operative amendments, another 3,112 words—underwrites our entire system of government. Is it time for that to change? The scholar Erwin Chemerinsky believes the Constitution not only makes addressing political problems harder but is itself responsible for many of the political problems we need to address. Its “very existence as a largely unchanged document has become a sledgehammer wielded by a minority to prop up a system that engenders polarization and festering national discord,” he writes in his new book, “No Democracy Lasts Forever: How the Constitution Threatens the United States.” Chemerinsky doesn’t just want to amend the Constitution, either. He wants us to throw it out and come up with a new one. Paul Pierson and Eric Schickler, the authors of “Partisan Nation: The Dangerous New Logic of American Politics in a Nationalized Era,” also blame the Constitution for our current problems, not so much because it was misconceived from the start as because it is now past its sell-by date. For most of American history, although there were some rough patches, the Constitution worked O.K., they think, but it “was simply not designed to meet the challenges we now face.” They compare the system of government the Framers built to “aging and rickety software.” The nature of politics has changed; the rules governing them should change, too. So what should we do with the Constitution? Louis Menand writes about the case for starting over: https://lnkd.in/g-CMrCSs
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CALL FOR BOOK CHAPTERS The Politics of Democratic Backsliding: Speaking Truth to Power in Political and Bureaucratic Relationships in Emerging and Developing Countries Editors: Frank L.K. Ohemeng, Joseph R.A Ayee, and Abena F. Dadze-Arthur An autonomous and resilient bureaucracy is critical in ensuring effective and high-quality public services, irrespective of a country’s governance model. Recent developments have seen political actors across the world increasingly attacking the merit-based bureaucracy, which traditionally upholds constitutional laws, administers the public sphere, and provides ‘frank and fearless’ advice to politicians. This edited book seeks to offer an epistemically diverse exploration of the changing roles of politicians and bureaucrats, and their relationship and rules of engagement across different governance contexts - and what the impacts have been. In so doing, it aims to equip scholars, practitioners, and decision-makers with a nuanced understanding of the complexities at work, in addition to stimulating the development of theoretical concepts and practical strategies to promote meritocratic and politically neutral public services in emerging and developing countries. The overarching question that authors should attempt to be address is: In what ways, if any, does democratic backsliding affect political and bureaucratic relationships? We are pleased to invite contributions from Higher Education, research, and practice contexts around the world. We seek chapters that offer diverse perspectives, epistemologies, and methodologies in contributing to the discussion in one or more of the following ways: (1) theorising conceptual elements, (2) exploring methodological approaches that are most useful in our critical analyses, (3) examining cases with different regime types, political systems, and constitutions, and/or (4) expanding the researcher-practitioner exchange. Abstracts should be 250-300 words and include a clear outline of the chapter. Full-length papers should be between 6,000-8,000 words, including references. Important Dates: October 31, 2024 - Abstract Submission Deadline December 1, 2024 - Acceptance of Abstract June 30, 2025 - Full Chapter Submission Deadline September 30, 2025 - Review process and Feedback December 31, 2025 - Revisions and Final Chapter Deadline January 31, 2026 - Final Decision Notification April 30, 2026 - Full Manuscript Deadline https://lnkd.in/gu2qGEEY Please send inquiries and abstracts to: Frank L.K. Ohemeng (Department of Political Science, Concordia University, Canada) [email protected]
The Politics of Democratic Backsliding: Speaking Truth to Power in Political and Bureaucratic Relationships in Emerging and Developing Countries – call for book chapters
emeraldgrouppublishing.com
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Chief Executive Officer at Atrium Consulting Inc
8moinsightful. You should also consider reading "Bad Money" by Brad Rigden.