ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book begins with a twofold overview of democratic theory. First, drawing upon classic and contemporary theorists such as John Locke, James Madison, Robert Dahl, Carol Pateman, and others, it also provides an examination of the basic principles of democratic theory and practice. The book discusses the Progressive Era reforms to American democratic theory and practice, keying in especially on the use of initiative and referendum. Within a democracy and the field of election law there are many actors who wish to participate. These include real biological individuals as well as artificial entities such as corporations, non-profits, and political parties. The book concludes with an argument that there needs to be a more comprehensive discussion and development of a democratic political theory to support and guide election law jurisprudence.
