Democracy: Clarifying the Muddle

This book is based on an in-depth filmed conversation between Howard Burton and renowned political theorist John Dunn, University of Cambridge. Through an engaging dialogue format, John Dunn candidly shares his deep insights on the historical development and current significance and future of democracy in different parts of the world and the relevance of political science departments in achieving democracy and other worthwhile goals. This carefully-edited book includes an introduction, Democratic Daze, and questions for discussion at the end of each chapter: I. Illusions and Confusions -Unmasking American stereotypes II. Historical Examinations -The power of etymology III. Thinking Deeper -Minimizing political bads IV. Trust and Belief -Thinking critically V. China -Challenging Western ideals? VI. India -The world's largest democracy VII. Power to the People -Overthrowing autocracy and what happens next VIII. Towards Progress -Why we should care about all of this IX. Professional Indulgence -Critically examining "political science"