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Demokratia

A Conversation on Democracies, Ancient and Modern

Josiah Ober editor Charles Hedrick editor

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Princeton University Press

Published:12th Dec '96

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

Demokratia cover

This book explores the relevance of classical Greek democracy through a dialogue between ancient history and political theory, highlighting its modern implications.

In Demokratia, a rich dialogue unfolds among scholars from the fields of ancient history and political theory, focusing on the enduring significance of classical Greek democracy. This book presents the insights of nineteen contributors who explore the complexities of Athenian democracy and its implications for contemporary political discourse. Each contributor brings a unique perspective, showcasing a diverse array of political commitments and analytical methods while engaging deeply with Greek texts and the normative issues they raise.

The contributors tackle fundamental themes such as the balance between revolution and stability, the interplay of freedom and equality, and the relationship between law and popular sovereignty. They critically examine the cultural ideals of ancient Athens alongside the realities of its social practices. Despite their differing views on various aspects of Athenian society, the authors collectively argue that the study of classical democracy is vital for understanding modern political challenges. Their discussions highlight the relevance of historical insights in shaping contemporary debates about governance and civic engagement.

Demokratia ultimately serves as a testament to the importance of interdisciplinary dialogue in addressing complex political questions. By bridging the gap between ancient and modern perspectives, this book invites readers to reconsider the lessons of Athenian democracy and their applicability to today's democratic practices, making it a significant contribution to both historical and political scholarship.

"The excellent collection of essays edited by Ober and Hedrick rewards the reader with a state-of-the-art survey from different perspectives on the topic of ancient democracy: what characterizes all the essays is the constant attention to the lesson that modern democracy can learn from looking back to its ancestral model."--Political Studies

ISBN: 9780691011080

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 709g

496 pages