Synopsis
An argument reviving participatory democracy, contending that taking part in decisions, including at work, educates citizens and is essential to a genuinely democratic society.
Core passage idea
Paraphrase · Modern copyrighted workParticipating in collective decisions, especially in the workplace, develops the very capacities that self-government requires, so democracy must extend beyond periodic voting.
It challenges minimalist democracy by making active participation both a school for citizenship and a condition of real self-rule.
To avoid a bubble
Pair with Benjamin Barber, Strong Democracy.
Reading note
Read it against the elitist democratic theory it rebuts; note the recovery of Rousseau and Mill and the stress on industrial participation.
Best paired with
Benjamin Barber, Strong Democracy