Barrington Moore bequeathed comparativists a problem: how to reconcile his causal claim of no bourgeoisie, no democracy with his normative dream of a free and rational society. In this book, Mark I. Lichbach harmonizes causal methodology and normative democratic theory, illustrating their interrelationship. Using a dialogue among four specific texts, Lichbach advances five constructive themes. First, comparativists should study the causal agency of individuals, groups, and democracies. Second, the three types of collective agency should be paired with an exploration of three corresponding...

Barrington Moore bequeathed comparativists a problem: how to reconcile his causal claim of no bourgeoisie, no democracy with his normative dream of a free and rational society. In this book, Mark I. Lichbach harmonizes causal methodology and normative democratic theory, illustrating their interrelationship. Using a dialogue among four specific texts, Lichbach advances five constructive themes. First, comparativists should study the causal agency of individuals, groups, and democracies. Second, the three types of collective agency should be paired with an exploration of three corresponding...