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Could populism actually be good for democracy?
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Could populism actually be good for democracy?

James Miller
The Guardian, 2018
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Winston Churchill famously pronounced that “Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others.” For political scientist James Miller, Churchill’s observation even holds true when democratic passions at times produce chaos, mob rule, and illiberal policies. In an era when an increasing number of people worldwide are questioning the benefits and merits of democratic systems, Miller’s essay antithetically champions keeping the democratic flame alive.   

Take-Aways

  • The election of populist governments and their implementation of illiberal policies has undermined faith in democracy in many parts of the world. 
  • Fear that popular self-rule may lead to chaos and unenlightened policies is as old as Ancient Greek democracy. 
  • The United States, which has a mixed form of government based on the separation of powers and regular elections, became a powerful advocate for democratic values under President Woodrow Wilson.  

About the Author

James Miller is professor of liberal studies and politics at the New School in New York, and the author of Can Democracy Work?

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