Democracy on Demand

Holding Power to Account

Matt Qvortrup

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Paperback

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English

Manchester University Press
21 September 2021

Politics & government; Elections & referenda; Political structures: democracy

Democracy on demand is a most comprehensive analysis of the good, the bad, and the ugly aspects of referendums and the challenges to modern democracy. It shows how democracy is vulnerable, and how it can be saved from demagogues.

Direct democracy makes you richer. Research shows that the average citizen earns nearly a $1000 for every referendum held, and that a strong correlation exists between the frequency of referendums and a GDP per capita. Referendums can also improve the quality of democracy. So why don't we see more? Drawing on a three decades of research, Qvortrup presents a definitive statement on the benefits and history referendums, including examples of how this instrument of democracy has been both utilised and abused. The book outlines the history of referendums, explains when politicians have submitted issues to the voters, why these votes have been won or lost - and ultimately why it matters. Uniquely, the book also examines the role of social media in referendum campaigns and make suggestions for improving the process of direct democracy Written in a lucid style by one of the world's leading experts on referendums, this volume is a timely reminder of the importance of democracy in our politics, offering new insights into how direct democracy can both improve our lives and at the same time strengthen our societies.

By: Matt Qvortrup
Imprint: Manchester University Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 216mm, Width: 138mm, Spine: 14mm
Weight: 304g
ISBN: 9781526158956
ISBN 10: 1526158957
Pages: 256
Publication Date: 21 September 2021
Audience: College/higher education , Professional and scholarly , Primary , Undergraduate
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

Introduction: the spectre of direct democracy Part I: Philosophy 1 The ideal of on demand direct democracy Part II: Practice 2 A brief history of the practice and consequences of referendums 3 Referendums, nationalism and separatism Part III: Regulation 4 The regulation of referendums: campaign spending Part IV: Improving direct democracy 5 Referendums and deliberative democracy 6 The recall as a mechanism for increasing accountability: an American case study 7 Citizen-initiated referendums: an empirical assessment Conclusion: bringing it all back home Index -- .

Matt Qvortrup is Professor of Political Science at Coventry University