Paper by Geoff Mulgan and Alex Fischer: “Work in Progress argues that democracy has not failed as an idea, but that many of the ways we practise it remain rooted in the 19th century and have not kept pace with a rapidly changing world. Falling trust, political disengagement and declining participation point to a system that is too often failing to listen, learn and adapt.
Drawing on more than 50 examples of democratic innovation from over 25 countries, Mulgan and Fischer set out a framework for understanding democracy as an interconnected system of functions – from elections and decision-making to public services, scrutiny, knowledge and citizen participation. They explore how these functions can be strengthened, alongside the relational foundations that allow democracy to work effectively.
The paper considers the opportunities and risks presented by digital technology and AI, arguing for deliberate investment in new forms of cognitive infrastructure that can help democracies harness collective intelligence, improve decision-making and rebuild trust.
The authors’ central message is clear: democracy should be treated as a work in progress – something to be upgraded, tested and renewed, rather than a finished achievement to simply defend…(More)”.
