| Summary: | Carole Pateman's 'Participation and Democratic Theory' is a seminal work that critiques the minimalist paradigm of democracy, popularized by Joseph Schumpeter, which views democracy merely as a method for selecting governing elites. Pateman argues that true democracy requires active citizen participation and extends beyond electoral processes to encompass broader social structures. She emphasizes the need for a participatory society where democratic principles are applied across various spheres, such as family, education, and industry. The book challenges the notion that citizen participation is a threat to stability and instead posits it as essential for genuine democratic governance. Intended for scholars and students of political philosophy, it remains relevant in discussions about enhancing democratic practices.
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