Lecture, Barnard's Inn Hall, Thursday, 14 Mar 2024 - 18:00

Democracy: Ancient Models, Modern Challenges

Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Demokratia is the power (kratos) of the people (demos). But what kind of power, and who constitutes the people? Although ancient democracy is often stylized as “direct democracy” and so positioned as very different from modern “representative democracy,” in fact, issues of accountability are central to both.

Ancient Greek models of holding leaders to account are still relevant. Furthermore, the ancient Greek use of election for some offices and lottery selection for others also offers instructive possibilities for modern challenges.

Professor Melissa Lane

Professor Melissa Lane

Gresham Professor of Rhetoric

Melissa Lane is the Class of 1943 Professor of Politics, Princeton University and is also Associated Faculty in the Department of Classics and Department of...

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