Description
Book SynopsisA deep dive into the history and philosophy of isonomy, a system of equal rights for all, as an alternative to the concept of democracy.
Trade Review“Stourzh revives the half-forgotten word ‘isonomy’ as rival to ‘democracy’ from its start in Herodotus, its development through regimes with ‘gradations’ of hierarchy, and its modern flowering in ‘equalizations’ and ‘democracy with adjectives.’ In brief compass he supplies a wonderful variety of thoughtful descriptions from the many sources of his remarkable learning.” -- Harvey Mansfield, Harvard University
“The eminent historian Gerald Stourzh has drawn on a lifetime of engagement in the development of law, constitutions, and citizens’ rights in Austria, the United States, and internationally to offer this learned essay on the concept of equality before the law, what the ancient Greeks were first to call
isonomy. Writing with wisdom, directness, and strong conviction, Stourzh deftly traces the evolution of isonomy over the centuries and assesses its realization and vulnerabilities in the contemporary world.” -- Gary B. Cohen, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
Table of ContentsPreface Introduction 1 Isonomy in Greek Antiquity 2 Gradations: Hierarchy in This World and the Other World 3 Equalizations: Ways toward Modern Isonomy in America and in France 4 Democracy with Adjectives 5 The Six Components of Modern Isonomy General Legal Capacity: From Slavery to Freedom Equality before the Law The Liberation of Peasants Tolerance and Equalization of Religious Groups Jewish Emancipation and Renewed Deprivation of Rights On the Equal Rights of Women Indigenous Persons Citizens and Foreigners Positive Discrimination (Affirmative Action) The Evolution of Fundamental Rights The Protection of Fundamental Rights as Part of Constitutional Justice The Internationalization of Fundamental Rights as Human Rights Democracy Conclusion: The Two Focal Points of Modern Isonomy Bibliography Index of Names
