Abstract
This article critically examines the ‘deliberative wave’ metaphor, a popular term describing the rise of deliberative mini-publics and democratic innovations. While acknowledging its value in communicating a growing trend and raising public awareness, the article argues that the metaphor carries significant dangers. It risks oversimplifying complex political processes, fostering unrealistic expectations, and inadequately addressing crucial issues of power dynamics, exclusion, and the diverse nuances within deliberative theory and practice. The article discusses alternative theoretical conceptualizations, such as ‘deliberative systems’, ‘empowered participatory governance’, ‘open democracy’, and other metaphors to offer a more nuanced understanding. This analysis contributes to the scholarly debate by urging a more critical assessment of democratic innovations that bridges the gap between normative theory and empirical realities.
Alexander M. Geisler
Postdoctoral researcher
I research the theory and practice of political communication and participatory innovations.