Against political compromise : sustaining democratic debate

Author(s)

Bibliographic Information

Against political compromise : sustaining democratic debate

Alexander Ruser and Amanda Machin

(Routledge focus)

Routledge, 2017

Available at  / 1 libraries

Search this Book/Journal

Note

Includes bibliographical references and index

Description and Table of Contents

Description

Political compromise is emerging as a preferred solution for numerous apparently intractable problems. Many have pointed to the rising degree of political polarisation around issues such as climate change, immigration and abortion. These are 'wicked problems' that are clearly not conducive to any sort of political consensus. The groups and individuals who are party to these issues disagree, often both fully and fiercely. As an alternative, political compromise seemingly offers a way of respecting difference while simultaneously generating a decision upon which policy can move forward. But proponents of political compromise should also acknowledge its significant weaknesses and dangers. Invoking recent examples from various policy areas to illustrate their claims, the authors assert that compromise can disguise inequality, reduce plurality and heighten uncertainty. In short, compromise can weaken democracy and must not be seen as some sort of political panacea. This concise, accessible text offers a strong and provocative argument that provides a crucial counterpoint to the promise of compromise. It should prove of interest to students and scholars interested in compromise and consensus as well as democratic governance, social inequality, political apathy and environmental politics.

Table of Contents

Introduction Chapter One: The Problem of Inequality Chapter Two: The Problem of Plurality Chapter Three: The Problem of Uncertainty Conclusion

by "Nielsen BookData"

Related Books: 1-1 of 1

Details

Page Top