Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book examines the prospects for the great expectations. A necessary first step is to clarify the concept of democracy. The book discusses the promotion of democracy from the outside with a focus on the delicate balance that outsiders must find between influencing the process of democratization while leaving ultimate control to insiders. It focuses on possible domestic consequences for economic development, welfare, and human rights. The book turns to the international consequences of democracy: Will it pave the way for a more peaceful and cooperative world. It investigates particular aspects of this dilemma. The book argues that the concept of transition is too optimistic to function concisely as a label covering the current fate of regime change. It concludes by briefly considering the future of democracy and democratization.