Prof Alan Renwick's inaugural lecture. What are the problems with democracy in the UK and are there any solutions that would work in practice?
Our democratic system is not working as well as it should: on this, both the public and most experts agree. But what exactly are the problems? What are the pros and cons of the potential solutions? And are such changes feasible?
Drawing on recent Constitution Unit research into public attitudes to democracy, as well as his own work on electoral systems, referendums, citizens’ assemblies and other democratic institutions, Alan Renwick explores answers to each of these questions. Alan argues that there are no quick fixes, but that a series of changes in institutions, practices, and behaviours may lead to valuable improvements.
With an introduction by Prof Meg Russell and an appreciation by Prof Anand Menon.