Against the Referendum (Classic Reprint) - Softcover

Inhaltsangabe

The book asks tough questions about direct democracy and who really bears the cost of it. It evaluates the idea that voters can directly steer legislation and weighs the practical limits, risks, and consequences of such a system. Through historical and international examples, it explores why some democracies rely on referendums while others protect representative governance.

Against the Referendum examines how direct legislation has worked in places like Switzerland and America, and why it often slows progress or shifts power in unexpected ways. The text argues that practical hurdles, unequal time for study, and the complexity of laws make broad popular voting a challenging tool for modern states. It also surveys arguments from supporters and critics across several nations, asking what kind of democracy is best suited to large, complex societies.

• Understand the main ideas behind direct legislation and the referendum.


• See how different countries have implemented or resisted this approach.


• Learn about common objections, from voter knowledge to potential gridlock.


• Consider historical context and what these debates mean for modern democracies.

Ideal for readers of political history and democratic theory seeking a measured, evidence-based look at referendum debate.

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