Democracy in Britain

Matt Cole

This textbook brings together an introduction to the political theory of democracy since Ancient times and a critical picture of its place in Britain today.

The author examines the work of Plato and Aristotle, Rousseau and Mill, Marx and Weber, and locates them and others in the debate about what democracy means. He then scrutinises Britain’s claim to be a developing democracy, from the power of the Prime Minister and the role of political parties to the influence of pressure groups and the media, as well as recent constitutional changes.

In the context of declining public trust in political institutions and increasing reluctance to vote, crucial questions are tackled: do we have a democracy, and why does it matter?

Related Subjects

• European and UK Politics

Series

• Politics Study Guides (Edinburgh University Press)

About the Author

Matt Cole teaches Politics and History at King Edward VI Sixth Form College in Stourbridge, and has lectured on Social Sciences for the Open University and for Birmingham University

top of page