Understanding Federal Democracy

This incisive book examines the relationship between federalism and democracy from a theoretical and comparative perspective. Arthur Benz proposes a novel understanding of why and how federal democracy can solve the dilemma of balancing effective governance with democratic legitimacy.
This incisive book examines the relationship between federalism and democracy from a theoretical and comparative perspective. Arthur Benz proposes a novel understanding of why and how federal democracy can solve the dilemma of balancing effective governance with democratic legitimacy.

Benz evaluates federal democracy as a complex system which is based on complementary principles that combine incongruent institutions. Based on historical, society-centred and actor-centred approaches, he analyses the potential frictions and constructive dynamics across diverse forms of federal government. In particular, he highlights the advantages of parliamentary de