Democracy, Values and Modes of Representation

Abstract

The Whig notion of history assumes a constant progress in the practice and values of human life, tending towards the emergence of more ‘humanistic’ goals and achievements. Such a view seems implied in the present project, and it is not to be lightly dismissed. Living standards, technology and science have made a constant move forward, effectively accumulating knowledge. And it is commonly thought that a similar shift can be found in values. Elias for example writes of the emergence of the ‘Civilization Process’ at the time of the European Renaissance. However in respect of values any vectorial movement seems much more questionable.