Carl Schmitt for the Masses: The Problematic Nature of Parliamentary Democracy

It is much easier today to see that there are problems with democracy and the idea of a democratic legislature. But what are those problems? How best to understand them? Alternatives?

20. Carl Schmitt for the Masses: The Problematic Nature of Parliamentary Democracy

Continuing my ongoing series reflecting on the works of Carl Schmitt, The Crisis of Parliamentary Democracy is another difficult book to both read and wrap your head around. The overall thread of the book is hard to tease out and one wonders if there is a single point being made, or if it is a series of vignettes dissecting the flaws in the idea of parliamentary democracy. The introduction by the translator is helpful and I would recommend reading it as well. There is a question as to whether or not one should deal with the material in the preface to the 1926 edition, which is reply to a critique by Toma, before or after dealing with the main part of the book. I am going to deal with it straight away because I think it helps the reader navigate a work that often leaves you with the thought, “Where is Schmitt going with this?” Written during Germany’s Weimar Republic period, it is Schmitt’s reflection on the internal contradictions of parliamentary democracy as he saw them in his day. …