Idea: Democratic legitimacy hinges on vibrant public sphere from "summary" of The Structural Transformation of the Public Sphere by Jurgen Habermas
The democratic legitimacy of a society is closely tied to the vibrancy of its public sphere. A vibrant public sphere is one in which citizens can freely engage in rational debate, share their opinions, and hold those in power accountable. When the public sphere is robust and inclusive, it allows for the exchange of diverse perspectives and the negotiation of conflicting interests. This fosters a sense of collective identity and shared values among citizens, which are essential for the functioning of a democratic society. In a vibrant public sphere, individuals are able to participate in public deliberation and decision-making processes, ensuring that policies and laws are reflective of the will of the people. This not only strengthe...
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