3 Review(s)

In this text, Russell Hardin develops a new theory of constitutional democracy. Arguing against the controversial theoretical consensus theories, the author shows how the social co-ordination rather than mutual advantage lies as the heart of liberal constitutionalism. The book argues that liberalism, constitutionalism, and democracy is a co-ordination theory. It then goes on to examine and interpret the US constitution as motivated centrally by the concern with commerce. In addition, the book addresses the nature of the problems that the newly democratic, newly market-oriented states face. The analysis of constitutionalism is, based on its workability, not on its intrinsic, normative, or universal appeals. Hardin argues, similarly, there are harsh limits on the possibilities of democracy. In general, democracy works only on the margins of great issues. Indeed, it is inherently a device for regulating marginal political conflicts.