Democracy: Clarifying the Muddle

This book is based on an in-depth filmed conversation between Howard Burton and renowned political theorist John Dunn, University of Cambridge. Through an engaging dialogue format, John Dunn candidly shares his deep insights on the historical development and current significance and future of democracy in different parts of the world and the relevance of political science departments in achieving democracy and other worthwhile goals. 


This carefully-edited book includes an introduction, Democratic Daze, and questions for discussion at the end of each chapter:


Illusions and Confusions - Unmasking American stereotypes

Historical Examinations - The power of etymology

Thinking Deeper - Minimizing political bads

Trust and Belief - Thinking critically

China - Challenging Western ideals?

India - The world’s largest democracy

Power to the People - Overthrowing autocracy and what happens next

Towards Progress - Why we should care about all of this

Professional Indulgence - Critically examining “political science”



About Ideas Roadshow Conversations Series: 


This book is part of an expanding series of 100+ Ideas Roadshow conversations, each one presenting a wealth of candid insights from a leading expert in a focused yet informal setting to give non-specialists a uniquely accessible window into frontline research and scholarship that wouldn't otherwise be encountered through standard lectures and textbooks. For other books in this series visit our website (https://ideas-on-film.com/ideasroadshow/).