Editorial

Abstract

In this edition, Albores brings together a collection of articles that address various challenges faced by modern democracies around the world. The causes of the issues discussed here—such as international cooperation, armed conflicts, collective action in favor of the environment, educational inclusion, labor regulation, and social rejection—can be better understood through the analytical lens offered by philosopher and political theorist Chantal Mouffe.

According to Mouffe, the novelty of modern democracy lies in the fact that the old democratic principle—that power must be exercised by the people—emerges within the symbolic framework shaped by liberal discourse. However, the core values of the liberal tradition (the importance of the rule of law, the defense of human rights, and respect for individual freedom) come into tension with those of the democratic tradition (equality and popular sovereignty). While the dominant trend today identifies democracy almost exclusively with respect for the rule of law and human rights, the importance of equality and popular sovereignty has been increasingly sidelined, as they are often considered outdated values.