The Gray Area with Sean Illing What deliberative democracy can, and can’t, do (with Jane Mansbridge)
Jul 11, 2019
In this conversation, Jane Mansbridge, a prominent Harvard professor and expert in deliberative democracy, discusses its potential to bridge political divides. She explores how citizen assemblies can foster civil discourse and tackle polarization, emphasizing the evolving dynamics in Congress that undermine cooperation. The chat highlights the impact of economic inequality on political divides and calls for innovative approaches to representation in today's technology-driven world, showcasing the necessity of engaging citizens in meaningful dialogue.
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Political Realignment
- The 1964 Civil Rights Act shifted Southern conservatives from the Democratic to the Republican party.
- This increased party homogeneity and led to a more liberal Democratic party and a more conservative Republican party.
Competitive Congress
- Increased competition in Congress since 1980 incentivized parties to obstruct each other rather than cooperate.
- This contrasts with earlier Democratic hegemony, where bipartisanship was more common due to different incentives.
Inequality and Polarization
- Inequality and polarization share a similar historical trajectory, but their causal link isn't straightforward.
- While inequality might fuel polarization through campaign donations, the timeline suggests polarization might precede inequality.
