Limitless pluralism or single-minded authoritarianism? Examining deliberative democracy and agonistic pluralism through Foucault’s notions of power and discourse

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2020-10-20
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nl
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This thesis examines Jürgen Habermas’ theory of deliberative democracy and Chantal Mouffe’s theory of agonistic pluralism and radical democracy in light of Foucault’s definitions of power. This research effort claims that both theories are not as different as Habermas and especially Mouffe argue them to be. Both have similar points of departure, both discuss a similar dichotomy in liberal democracy, and both propose a framework which cannot definitively close the door on single-minded authoritarianism. When truth is considered contingent, democracy cannot be considered necessary. Ultimately, this thesis argues that the appeal for liberal democracy could only be secured when we make the system pay, at least it terms of freedom.
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Faculteit der Filosofie, Theologie en Religiewetenschappen