Systemic Corruption

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This book examines strategies to combat the inherent corruption within representative democracy. It reveals that many modern liberal democracies have evolved into oligarchies, facing a structural political decay identified by ancient philosophers. The author contends that this issue stems not merely from corrupt politicians but is ingrained in the very structure of representative systems. A compelling genealogy of political corruption is presented, tracing its evolution from ancient to contemporary thought, highlighting how representative democracy has often protected the interests of the wealthy at the expense of the majority. Following the adoption of neoliberal policies, many democracies have succumbed to oligarchic influences. The author proposes reversing this trend by creating a counterpower capable of challenging ruling elites. Drawing inspiration from anti-oligarchic innovations suggested by plebeian philosophers, the book reimagines the republic as a mixed order that institutionalizes popular power to check oligarchy. It advocates for a plebeian republic with local assemblies empowered to drive grassroots reform, independent of political parties. By incorporating insights from thinkers like Machiavelli, Condorcet, Luxemburg, and Arendt, the book offers a vision for restoring democracy through the establishment of institutions that enable collective resistance against the domination of the few.