With the rise of direct-democratic instruments, the relationship between popular sovereignty and the rule of law is set to become one of the defining political

This volume analyses how the use of referendums affects the central functions and characteristics of representative democracy. It provides a balanced account of

Combining an account of the political history and philosophy of the referendum, with a thorough assessment of the practical experiences with referendums in west

As the referendum becomes a more regular component of decision making, it leaves few, if any, institutions, processes and values of democracy untouched. Politic