The Shortest History of Democracy

The Shortest History of Democracy by John Keane is a short but concise history that goes into more depth than one might expect.

This little volume does more than just give a history, it also highlights the fact that democracy is not guaranteed to survive. In fact, it is through seeing how democracy has changed and evolved over the years, even at times into less desirable forms, that offers hope for its future. At turns uplifting and disconcerting, we are ultimately left with some hope even if it might seem like dark days indeed.

My favorite section was his explanation and analysis of monitory democracy. Keane offers some perspective that, while perhaps isn't new, is too often ignored or overlooked. But more than anything, even though this show more is a history, it is one that has an eye on the future and what that future might be. It is up to us to learn and start doing what we must to create the type of democracy we want.

Highly recommended for those wanting a brief history as well as those who want a big picture refresher to help them gain some grounded perspective on current events.

Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley. show less