Chapter Overview

This chapter analyzes the fragility of democracies and the possible explanations for democracy's recent surge. The chapter also challenges the "end of history" thesis and explores what political scientists have been able to learn so far about the processes of democratization, such as the role of "pacts." The chapter then looks at the relationship between democracy and individual freedom, and democracy and capitalism. The chapter ends with detailed examinations of Spain's relatively smooth transition to democracy, Peru's more troubled trip down that road, and factors behind their differing experiences.

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