Constituent Power

This book examines the role of 'the people' in constitutional democracies, addressing contemporary challenges and engaging with key political theorists. Constituent Power offers a comprehensive analysis.

In recent years, significant social and political shifts have prompted a reevaluation of the role and definition of 'the people' within constitutional democracies. The book Constituent Power delves into these pressing issues, particularly in light of recent events such as the presidential elections in the United States and the rise of antidemocratic policies in Hungary and Poland. These developments have sparked critical discussions about the composition and influence of 'the people' in shaping democratic governance.

Constituent Power brings together an impressive array of scholars from diverse fields, including law, political theory, and history, to address the contemporary challenges faced by constitutional democracies. The contributors examine the intricate interplay between constitutional law and the political authority of 'the people', shedding light on how these dynamics evolve in different contexts. The book draws on a wide-ranging international perspective, featuring voices from the USA, Latin America, the UK, and continental Europe.

Through the lens of radical democracy, the contributors engage with the thoughts of influential theorists like Hannah Arendt, Carl Schmitt, Claude Lefort, and Jacques Rancière. By exploring the multifaceted relationship between constitutional democracy and 'the people', Constituent Power provides valuable insights into the legal and political frameworks that underpin modern democratic societies, encouraging readers to reflect on the future of democracy in a changing world.