Deliberative democracy now: LGBT equality and the emergence of large-scale deliberative systems

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

"Dysfunction in American democracy has become a source of concern and even alarm to people across the political spectrum in the US and around the globe. While these concerns are well founded, it is worthwhile to remember that democracy itself is evolving. Like other forms of social self-organization it shifts and transforms in and over time as societies themselves change in unforeseen ways. For several decades numerous scholars have held that one next possible stage in the evolution of democracy is the emergence of "deliberative democracy." In this vision, deliberative democracy is generally defined as democratic self- governance in which a democratic public makes choices regarding how to live in common through a conversation-based process of collective discussion and reflection. This deliberative process has been described often-frequently following the philosopher Jurgen Habermas-as involving an exchange of reasons among people who are engaged in meaningful communication and consideration on a matter of common concern. In this model of deliberative democracy, therefore, a common will emerges through the process of collective reflection, discussion, and choice"--