English | 2025 | ISBN-10: 303210890X | 185 pages| Epub PDF (True) | 3.6 MB
The Case Against Political Parties questions the widespread belief that political parties are essential to democracy. This open access book argues that parties often undermine rational deliberation, fair representation, and government accountability.
While parties offer voters simplified choices, they also reward loyalty over truth, sideline majority preferences, and empower narrow interest groups. They've helped some marginalized communities while neglecting others.
Drawing on political theory, U.S. history, and psychology, Chris Baylor explores how nonpartisan alternatives have worked at the local, state, and national levels. He examines what parties do well, where they fall short, and what a healthier democratic system might look like if we dared to imagine one.