Democratic Theory And Causal Methodology In Comparative

Barrington Moore bequeathed comparativists a problem: how to reconcile his causal claim of “no bourgeoisie, no democracy” with his normative “dream of a free and rational society.” In this book, Mark I. Lichbach harmonizes causal methodology and normative democratic theory, illustrating their interrelationship. Using a dialogue among four specific texts, Lichbach advances five constructive themes. First, comparativists should study the causal agency of individuals, groups, and democracies. Second, the three types of collective agency should be paired with an exploration of three corresponding moral dilemmas: ought-is, freedom-power, and democracy-causality. Third, at the center of inquiry, comparativists should place big-P