Deliberative Democracy in Australia: The Changing Place of Parliament

Description

Parliament is central to the democratic claims of our system of governance. This book evaluates the role and performance of this centrepiece of Australian government. It explores the institutional design of the parliament, and its principles and practices, presenting a compelling case for reform. Uhr discusses parliament's representative and legislative roles, and the issue of accountability. He looks at the place of representative assemblies in liberal political theory and assesses current institutional performance. He argues that republicanism can be seen as a form of deliberative democracy, examining ways in which such democracy might be made more effective and meaningful in Australia. Combining an authoritative knowledge of political theory with a familiarity with the inner-workings of the Australian parliament, the author makes an important contribution to debates in Australia and internationally.

'Cambridge University Press is to be congratulated on the quality of this publication, another in its distinguished Studies in Australian History series. Attractively presented and meticulously edited, the production does justice to the quality of the text as a major contribution to our understanding of the relationship between gender, work and the state,' Raelene Frances, Australian Historical Studies 'This is a splendidly produced book. It shows what it means to have Cambridge University Press as publisher. It is a mine of information, it is stimulating and thought-provoking.' Anthony Mason, Canberra, Bulletin of Public Administration