With the compelling historic tension between elite and popular models of democracy as a framework, THE DEMOCRATIC DEBATE offers an innovative and incisive examination of American democracy. From the anti-federalists to contemporary political and social movements, special attention is given to people whose inspirational actions have made--and are making--a difference. Recent events, including the government's response to the financial crisis, Supreme Court decisions on campaign finance and health care, the dramatic appearance of the Tea Party and Occupy Wall Street movements, and the 2012 presidential election, demonstrate contemporary relevance for this critical perspective on how best to study politics.