This is a two day research seminar that will take place online, July 6 and 7 at 9am EDT/2pm GMT – 12pm EDT/5pm GMT.
We are far from living at the ‘end of history’ where liberal democracy does not have major global competitors. The very idea of democracy – what it means, what it demands (and of whom), what supports or undermines it institutionally or culturally (within or across borders) – is hotly debated around the globe. This seminar focuses on current cutting-edge work taking place in politics and international studies at the University of Warwick and at the Balsillie School of International Affairs addressing specific issues of democratic theory and practice. ‘Rethinking democracy’ is also a way to initiate detailed engagement alongside a longstanding and productive Warwick-Balsillie research link centred on international relations. The event will explore areas of democratic theory, difficult or challenging case studies around questions of democracy, and debate over diverse perspectives on democracy.
A range of theorists, comparative and empirical scholars, and international relations researchers at both institutions will present. The notion of ‘rethinking democracy’ is to be interpreted broadly; all perspectives and approaches are welcome within a frame of interrogating the meaning, status or challenges of democracy today.