University essay

[Post-Something]

Ok, I have to write a 2000-2500 word essay on:

"Assess the strengths and weaknesses of democracy and its political competitors."

How do I tackle this?

[Holden Caulfield]

Plato and guardianship, modern fascism
Rousseau and direct democracy, socialism vs. modern 'democracy'
some anarchist theory,

maybe

[Pirate turtle the 11th]

Life in Athens compared to life in Sparta?

[Holden Caulfield]

Life in Athens compared to life in Sparta?
that is pretty much what Plato bangs on about, kinda

[Post-Something]

Plato and guardianship, modern fascism
Rousseau and direct democracy, socialism vs. modern 'democracy'
some anarchist theory,

maybe

That's so helpful, thanks!

You know where I can get a copy of those texts online for free? Or will I have to travel all the way to the library?

[Holden Caulfield]

Erm... no,
here is a short list of some good books on democracy...

J. J. Rousseau The Social Contract
J.S. Mill Considerations of Representative Government
E. Burke Speech to the Electors of Bristol
J.A. Schumpeter Capitalism, Socialism and Democracy
Aristotle The Constitution of Athens

You could also include the
Plato's 'Republic', Perhaps discuss Hegel and Hobbes on the monarchy
and include some modern fascistic and anarchist teachings

[apathy maybe]

Yeah, as I said, define democracy (government by and for citizens, directly).

Then give a brief history of the evolution of the ideas (the Greeks were not nice, 'cause they defined citizen as rich men native to that city). Talk a bit about liberalism (everyone should be a citizen, and thus have a say).

I wouldn't really focus on the Greeks though. Liberalism is much more interesting, and much more relevant.