The Ebb and Flow: Examining the Promises and Pitfalls of the ‘Deliberative Wave’ Metaphor
Journal
Representation
Type
journal article
Date Issued
2025-10-14
Author(s)
Abstract
This article critically examines the ‘deliberative wave’ metaphor, a popular term describing the rise of deliberative mini-publics and democratic innovations. While acknowledging its value in communicating a growing trend and raising public awareness, the article argues that the metaphor carries significant dangers. It risks oversimplifying complex political processes, fostering unrealistic expectations, and inadequately addressing crucial issues of power dynamics, exclusion, and the diverse nuances within deliberative theory and practice. The article discusses alternative theoretical conceptualizations, such as ‘deliberative systems’, ‘empowered participatory governance’, 'open democracy', and other metaphors to offer a more nuanced understanding. This analysis contributes to the scholarly debate by urging a more critical assessment of democratic innovations that bridges the gap between normative theory and empirical realities.
Language
English
Keywords
deliberation
democratic innovations
assembly democracy
Refereed
Yes
Publisher
Informa UK Limited
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The Ebb and Flow Examining the Promises and Pitfalls of the Deliberative Wave Metaphor.pdf
Size
870.06 KB
Format
Adobe PDF
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