Network Democracy
Conservative Politics and the Violence of the Liberal Age
A unique hybrid of ancient and contemporary conservative thought that offers a radical challenge to Western liberalism.
Description
Network Democracy uses the contemporary tools of ecology and network thinking to unearth the ancient, intellectual ruins of traditional conservative thought. Questioning the West’s veneration of freedom, equality, contractual citizenship, economic progress, cosmopolitanism, secular institutionalism, and reason, Jared Giesbrecht illuminates how these ideals fuel violence and insecurity in our high-speed lives. While the modern age witnesses the rise of a violent conservatism in the form of revolutionary movements enacting terror and vengeance for the interventions of the liberal West, this study reveals a different kind of conservatism - one that has emerged in direct conversation with liberal thought. Giesbrecht highlights the need for intermediate institutions and civil enterprises that form relations and traditions independent of the state in order to develop resistance to the insecurity of the liberal age. This book offers not only a poignant critique, but a constructive and peaceable alternative to the violence of both liberalism and reactionary anti-liberalism. Attuned to the new realities of globalization, advanced technology, and social acceleration, Network Democracy is a masterful hybrid of ancient and cutting-edge political philosophy that casts a new light on the values underlying western civilization.
Reviews
"An innovative critique of modern liberalism that should interest scholars of both liberal and conservative political thought. Highly Recommended." Choice
"Network Democracy provides a unique and fresh analysis of networked communications and behaviours. The author convincingly combines a classical conservative philosophical perspective with contemporary critical social theory to highlight forms of power, domination, and exploitation underlying the networked society." Timothy Kersey, Kennesaw State University
“Giesbrecht offers an innovative critique of modern liberalism that should interest scholars of both liberal and conservative political thought. Highly Recommended.” CHOICE
“The overall impact of this text and its implications for interpersonal and political action are distinctive and large. The author’s sources are a diverse blend of relevant classics, contemporary writing, and eccentric materials.” Blaine Baker, McGill University
"The overall impact of this text and its implications for interpersonal and political action are distinctive and large. The author's sources are a diverse blend of relevant classics, contemporary writing, and eccentric materials." Blaine Baker, McGill University