A passionate argument against the use of referenda as a tool of democratic decision-making, this book draws on historical examples to demonstrate the dangers of oversimplifying complex issues and risking the tyranny of the majority. With insights into contemporary political debates around the world, this is an important contribution to the ongoing discussion about the proper role of direct democracy in modern societies. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.