Speaking For The People: Representation in Australian Politics

(Paperback)

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Description

Speaking for the People introduces the concepts of representation that lie at the heart of representative democracy. It explores for the first time the distinctive ways in which Australian have thought about and practised representation. It is also the first book internationally to include analysis of non-parliamentary institutions of representation. Without the belief that others can represent their interests, citizens will withdraw their trust from parliamentary instltutions. Some would argue that today this trust is very fragile, as political elltes appear to have a different set of policy priorities from those of the people they represent. Whether and how meaningful voice can be given to all groups within our society is one of the many questions this book addresses.

Reviews

"At a time when there is major change taking place in Australian politics as old loyalties are eroded, and there is increasing evidence of alienation of some sections of the electorate from perceived 'elites', this analysis of the weaknesses in existing methods of representation is most timely." --Dr. Dennis Woodward, Monash University

Author Bio

Marian Sawer AO is Associate Professor of Politics at the University of Canberra. Her books include Sisters in Suits: Women and Public Policy in Australia (1990) and A Woman's Place: Women and Politics in Australia (with Marian Simms, 1984: 1993). Glanni Zappala is Research Co-ordinator at the Smith Family, and was a program visitor in the Political Science Program, Research School of Social Sciences, ANU.