American Democracy in Peril: Eight Challenges to America's Future

by William E. Hudson

In this Eighth Edition of American Democracy in Peril, author William E. Hudson provides a perceptive analysis of the challenges our democracy faces in the current era: economic crisis, partisan gridlock, rising economic inequality, and continued military conflict in the Middle East and elsewhere. By introducing the history of democratic theory in terms of four “models” of democracy, he provides readers with a set of criteria against which to evaluate the challenges discussed later. This provocative book offers a structured, yet critical examination of the American political system, designed to stimulate students to consider how the facts they learn about American politics relate to democratic ideals.

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction

424 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 1, 2003

Reviews

[Hilary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well, William Hudson himself is a challenge to his readers. In every one of the challenges he puts to American democracy, he raises good questions, but ultimately, I believe, takes a too-narrow view of what constitutes a democracy. His arguments can be frustrating at times, but he does point out important issues that American society ought to address.

[Marley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some chapters blew my mind, some bogged on forever. Either way worth a read

[Anthony Lawson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hudson's work, American Democracy in Peril offers an intriguing examination of 8 challenges to democracy in America. These challenges are:

1. Separation of powers
2. The imperial judiciary
3. Radical individualism
4. Citizen participation
5. Elections without the People's voice
6. The privilege position of business
7. Economic inequality
8. The national security state

The book does take a particular position, so you can say it is biased, but then again the author is up front that he is stating his views rather than merely offering a survey. I found his narrative interesting and wasn't always satisfied with either his criticism of opposing views, nor with some of his solutions. But, he does get you thinking. To supplement your thinking he offers a series of thought questions and suggestion for further reading where he indicates which resources agrees with his position, and which ones do not.

All in all I think this is a good book, offering interesting and challenging ideas, but I would also recommend reading this resource along with a few others that offer differing views to get a broader perspective.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

A study of democracy today which will have you thinking - Just what has happened to our country. A must read for any citizen, no matter what your political leanings.

[Nicholas T-R IV · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a text book, but an essential read for every American citizen.