Definitions, Principle, and Evolution DEMOCRACY AND DEMOCRATIZATION Definitions, Principle, and Evolution

Origin and Sources of Democracy (I) Greek Democracy The foundation for the concept of public participation Public participation in the affairs of government The people were the state. The idea of popular sovereignty Roman Tradition The concept of republicanism that emphasized the separation of powers within a state and the representation of the public through elected officials. Legislative bodies (like a senate)

Origin and Sources of Democracy (II) Democratic Institutions & Practices in Europe and the U.S. In 13th century, English nobles forced King John to sign the Magna Carta, a document that curbed the rights of the king and laid the foundation for an early form of legislature. The idea that no individual, not even the king, was above the law. The 1642 English Civil War (King Charles I vs. Parliament) in which the king eventually lost and killed. Monarchy’s attempt to expand its power failed. In 1648, Treaty of Westphalia asserts the right of European states to choose their own religion, enforcing the notion of state sovereignty. Bill of Rights was passed in England in 1689, establishing parliamentary supremacy. In 1787, U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights codify the separation of powers and civil rights Reform Acts in the UK expanded voting rights to much of the male population during 1832-84.

Direct Democracy Democracy as a form of government offering a workable solution to the fundamental political problem of reaching collective decisions by peaceful means Democracy was defined by Aristotle as ‘each to rule and be ruled in turn’ Flaws in Athens’ ‘little democracy’ Citizenship was restricted to a small elite Most citizens were absent from most assembly meetings The system was elaborate, time-consuming and expensive The principle of self-government did not always lead to decisive and coherent policy (the lack of a permanent bureaucracy contributed to ineffective)

Representative Democracy The principle is not self-rule but elected government Modern democracy is based on a liberal philosophy Constitution—”supreme over all causes” The role of the state is restricted by constitution A distinction between public and private Features A large size of population, mass literacy, industrialization Elite rule (through party competition) as both inevitable and desirable Representative government allows experts to make decision and limits the popular voice Limited government

Consociational Democracy Government by grand coalition. Mutual minority veto. Proportionality governing political representation. Segmental autonomy.

Grand Coalitions Government includes leaders from all relevant segments within society. Consensual as opposed to majoritarian democracy. This can be done via coalitions, rotational presidencies, collegial cabinets, linked executive posts across segments. Parliamentarism more favorable than presidentialism. Monarchies may promote cooperation or division.

Minority Veto Majority rule within grand coalitions not enough to promote stability. Each segment is given a veto to promote political security. Majority tyranny is reduced because each group possesses a veto. Groups recognize the dangers of immobilism.

Proportional Representation Proportionality governs financial allocations and civil service positions. Groups should be represented proportionately in governing coalitions. Linkage across issues may provide for agreement. Postpones major decisions until agreements can be reached. Elite agreements during secret negotiations may provide breakthroughs.

Segmental Autonomy National government makes limited decisions in the national interest. Segments possess autonomy in their localized regions. Federalism is an extension of segmental autonomy. Recognizes segmental cleavages, but attempts to draw them into governance.