The idea that oligarchy naturally evolves (declines?) into democracy is an old one, famously expressed in Plato’s Republic (still a good read, in my opinion).
I’m not sure about ‘naturally’; it seems more likely that the various factors which /could/ combine to spur democracy will naturally wax and wane in different patterns, occasionally all lining up at the same time and providing would-be democrats an opportunity.
Then again, I could be wrong. Anyone have some decent references comparing how democracies have historically started off?
Oh, boy. That’s a topic about which there is little consensus, if any. You’re basically asking for a comprehensive theory which explains how and why various political structures arose and fell in the course of history. That’s a very contentious field filled with mindkilling mines...
The idea that oligarchy naturally evolves (declines?) into democracy is an old one, famously expressed in Plato’s Republic (still a good read, in my opinion).
I’m not sure about ‘naturally’; it seems more likely that the various factors which /could/ combine to spur democracy will naturally wax and wane in different patterns, occasionally all lining up at the same time and providing would-be democrats an opportunity.
Then again, I could be wrong. Anyone have some decent references comparing how democracies have historically started off?
Traditionally, the birth of democracy is attributed to Ancient Greece. I don’t have references handy but I’m sure it’s very googleable.
The original idea for it may come from there, yes; but why did that idea get implemented at any particular time, instead of earlier or later?
Oh, boy. That’s a topic about which there is little consensus, if any. You’re basically asking for a comprehensive theory which explains how and why various political structures arose and fell in the course of history. That’s a very contentious field filled with mindkilling mines...