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Definitions, Evidence, and Policy

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  • Arend Lijphart

Abstract

The concept of consociational democracy - synonymous with the less polysyllabic and more readily understandable term power-sharing democracy - can be defined in terms of the four elements of grand coalition, autonomy, proportionality, and mutual veto, and it is preferable not to narrow it by including plural society as a fifth element. It is closely related to, but not coterminous with, the concept of consensus democracy. Both can be used for empirical as well as normative purposes. The comparative evidence shows convincingly that consociational and consensus democracy can make a vital contribution to democratic stability in deeply divided societies - a finding that has significant policy implications.

Suggested Citation

  • Arend Lijphart, 2000. "Definitions, Evidence, and Policy," Journal of Theoretical Politics, , vol. 12(4), pages 425-431, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jothpo:v:12:y:2000:i:4:p:425-431
    DOI: 10.1177/0951692800012004003
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Lijphart, Arend, 1996. "The Puzzle of Indian Democracy: A Consociational Interpretation," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 90(2), pages 258-268, June.
    2. Giovanni Sartori, 1994. "Comparative Constitutional Engineering," International Economic Association Series, Palgrave Macmillan, number 978-1-349-22861-4.
    3. Barry, Brian, 1975. "Review Article: Political Accommodation and Consociational Democracy," British Journal of Political Science, Cambridge University Press, vol. 5(4), pages 477-505, October.
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