Militant Democracy: Concept, Critique, and Comparative Perspectives

Imagine a democracy so committed to defending itself that it creates a system restricting the political and civil rights of anti-democratic actors to fight back. A system that challenges the idea that democracies are netrual spaces that must always remain open, even for those who seek to destroy it. This seminar introduces Political Science and Teaching students the theory of militant democracy, examining its foundations, critiques, and comparative applications. The course will be divided into three sections. The first section explores the theoretical origins and contemporary interpretations of militant democracy, focusing the attention on Karl Loewenstein’s framework, as well as on the more contemporary perspectives.

The second section engages with the debate on militant democracy’s legitimacy and efficacy, analyzing arguments for and against it. Students will identify the main arguments and critically discuss whether protective measures strengthen or undermine democratic values and institutions.

The final section offers a comparative perspective, comparing the German anti-extremism model with other national cases. Case studies from countries will illustrate how democracy protection measures are implemented in practice, followed by a comparative discussion of their effectiveness and implications.

The seminar combines theoretical insights with real-world applications, equipping students with a deeper understanding of how democracies navigate the tension between openness and self-defense.