A new book written during the COVID-19 lockdown by Professor Frank Furedi, SSPSSR Emeritus Professor of Sociology, explores the idea that democracy has diminished during the pandemic.
Democracy Under Siege: Don’t Let Them Lock It Down discusses how democracy first emerged in society – and why, when so many commentators are now questioning its value, it has suddenly found itself in crisis.
Professor Furedi wrote this short, urgent account of why democracy means more than just the right to vote after becoming concerned when governments across the globe responded to COVID-19 by implementing full lockdowns and restricting the freedom of citizens.
He draws upon decades of research into such crucial concepts as ‘authority’ and ‘risk’, tracing the decline in support for democracy following World War II, when support for democratic values was widely cherished. His book argues that, similar to the elitist disdain prominent following the EU Referendum, we are seeing the emergence of a wave of ‘Democracy Panic’ spread by people who believe that the ‘demos’ are too informed by prejudice and fake news.
Professor Furedi said: ‘The moral authority of democracy is being openly questioned in the most explicit way since the 1930s. Giving voice to the people through democratic decision-making is the foundation for a good society, where the people take responsibility for themselves and their communities. The main message of Democracy Under Siege is that democracy must not be taken for granted and its future requires the willingness of citizens to participate in public affairs. Even under the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic, democracy must not be put on hold.’
The Academy of Ideas is hosting an online book launch of Democracy Under Siege: Don’t Let Them Lock It Down, where Professor Furedi will be in conversation with journalist Ella Whelan – 19.00 on Friday 30 October 2020. Register for free here.
Democracy Under Siege: Don’t Let Them Lock It Down is published by Zer0 Books and will be released on Friday 30 October 2020.