Democracy's Troubles

The late John E. Miller taught American history at the University of Tulsa and South Dakota State University for three decades. He wrote nine books on Midwestern politics and culture and other topics. He lived in Brookings, South Dakota.

“Miller identifies and explains a dozen separate challenges threatening American democracy today. …a timely, detailed and documented study…impressively informative…thought-provoking…recommended”—Midwest Book Review

• Table of ContentsPrefaceIntroduction: Democracy and the Challenges Confronting It1. Democracy, Education and Journalism in American History2. Social/Cultural Challenges to DemocracyChallenge 1—Education in Need of RenewalChallenge 2—Journalism in Free FallChallenge 3—The Shifting World of IdeasChallenge 4—Fake News, Alternative Facts and the Assault on TruthChallenge 5—Declining Faith in Institutions and LeadersChallenge 6—The Need to Revitalize Character and Community3. Political Challenges to DemocracyChallenge 7—Voters in a FunkChallenge 8—Polarized PoliticsChallenge 9—Congress Throws Out the TextbookChallenge 10—The Rise of the New Imperial PresidencyChallenge 11—Disappearing Norms and General Dysfunction in PoliticsChallenge 12—The Natural Fragility of Democracy4. A Program for RenewalEpilogueSuggestions for Further ReadingChapter NotesBibliographyIndex