Today, democracy is widely regarded as an ideal form of governance. However, in practice, it often seems like a fraud, a political puppet where hidden elites pull the strings.

As trust in elected representatives collapses around the world, it is no surprise that democratic revolutions have erupted—from Cairo to Kyiv and beyond—in an attempt to 'take back control.'

In this compelling and vivid history, James Miller reminds us that democracy has always generated friction and contradictions. Through philosophical discord and violent uprisings, it has been challenged, corrupted, and refined. In different times and places—from ancient Athens to revolutionary France and post-war America—its significance has changed in astonishing ways.

For over two thousand years, the world has been experimenting with democracy. But can it really work—especially in complex modern societies?

Pages: 320, Year of Publication: 0428, Dimensions: 12.9x12.9cm