Includes bibliographical references (pages 251-270) and index.
Contents:
The journey lasts forever: beyond 'democratic consolidation' -- Deeper and broader: what makes democracies more or less democratic? -- Democracy in deed: the centrality of collective action -- Colonisation of a sympathetic type? The culture of democracy -- Another lens: collective action and democracy in Africa -- Every day is a special day: collective action a democratic routine -- Power is theirs? Why collective action is usually the preserve of the few -- Collective action as democratic citizenship: the Treatment Action Campagin -- Towards popular sovereignty: building a deeper and stronger democracy.
Summary:
"'What are democracies meant to do? And how does one know when one is a democratic state?' These incisive questions and more underlie this robust enquiry into what democracy means for South Africa post 1994. Power in Action persuasively argues that democracies can only work when every adult has an equal say in the public decisions that affect them. Democracy is achieved not by adopting idealised models derived from other societies, especially from the global North, but rather, it is the product of collective action. Citizens' rights to be heard should not only be through public protest action but also through the conscious exercise of influence on public and private power holders. In this way, more citizens can claim a say over more decisions in society. This is an essential read for all those interested in the future of democracy in Africa as well as the world"--Back cover.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.