Deliberative Democracy Now : LGBT Equality and the Emergence of Large-Scale Deliberative Systems

This book shows how the sea change in public opinion on LGBT equality reveals that democracy is evolving into deliberative democracy - a process in which all have a voice. Identifying the catalysts needed to excite new public reflection and conscious choice, this book will interest anyone who cares about democracy's future.

While millions feel politically marginalized, there is evidence that democracy is evolving into a conversation-based, public-centered practice called deliberative democracy. In this new form of democracy, public discussion, conscious reflection, and collective choice drive democratic governance and have the power to override democratic dysfunction. Illustrating this emerging possibility with examples from 28 years of US public engagement on LGBT equality, this book offers a practical model for the growth of deliberative democracy in which everyone can take part. It identifies the necessary social catalysts, the role of social networks and technology, and key pathways to addressing unconscious bias, hidden fears, and identity based polarization as they were overcome in the LGBT case. It demonstrates how each person can gain voice and influence in a deliberative democracy in which people once again become the true source of political power. This book will interest anyone who cares about the future of democracy.