“The politics in the Philippines, during the latter part of the 20th century, were positive concerning the potential for what has become radical democracy as rule from the demos, by, of, and for the People. However, as is argued in the current work, democracy became elitist thereby largely ignoring much of the population. This lack of reach caused turbulence as the 21st century began due to the large distance between the periphery and the center, with the periphery growing in size. With a large periphery, social unrest becomes apparent as people try to work through the democratic system for basic relief, while realizing they are risking political and societal breakdown. The challenges are vast and the risks are increasing for this resource rich country. Into these conditions, a small group of philosophers from the south of the Philippines are considering current deliberation on politics concerning poverty, ecology, technology, and general concerns that give attention to the root causes of the conditions. Their goal is a full democracy both formal and substantive for all. It is wise, considering democracy, that the tension between any areas of society not fall into authoritarianism as many societies, globally, are experiencing varying levels of strains, some resulting in war that could lead to global economic, political, and environmental catastrophe. It is through democracy that a reasonable, humane, ecological, adaptive future would be most likely achieved. As is rightly recognized in the book, deliberation and social movements are a requirement to fill the “chasm between formal democratic institutions and the need to substantiate it” by pressure on, and at times, challenge and confrontation of those who are in power.”
- Dr. Layne Hartsell, Department of Philosophy, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok