'Democracies in Peril proceeds with the evenhandedness of a diplomat and the incisive analytical insight of a superbly informed scholar. In it Hans Keman explains the value of democracy, with all its limitations, and how the rising menaces of anti-pluralism and populism are slowly derailing liberal democratic practices from within. All who care to understand what is at stakeand we all shouldwill gain a clear-eyed appreciation of the stakes by pondering the ideas Keman puts on offer.'
Michael McDonald, Professor of Political Science, State University of New York at Binghamton, USA
'This is a thoughtful and realistic account of the much discussed crisis of democracies today making us to understand their weaknesses and defects with ensuing diminishing policy performance and a loss of trust in government. The comprehensive analysis of democracies allows the author to suggest ways out of the current legitimacy crisis by making proposals for building higher levels of confidence in the democratic system. The book sets new standards in the discussion on the democratic backlash. A must read!'
Dietmar Braun, Professor of Political Science, University of Lausanne, Switzerland
"This insightful book by a longstanding scholar of comparative politics examines contemporary democratic backsliding from various perspectives. Focusing on 38 cases from around the world, Keman uses liberal democracy as the central point of analysis... The book draws on an extensive, up-to-date literature, and each chapter summarizes its key points and provides selected suggested readings. Individual chapters provide useful material for discussion. That said, this is not an introductory work. Recommended for upper-level and graduate courses, especially seminars.
Alan Siaroff, The University of Lethbridge, CanadaSumming Up: Recommended. Advanced undergraduates through faculty.
