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As the last century came to an end, democracy appeared triumphant. After terror and tumult, world war and iron curtains, it seemed democracy, peace and prosperity would endureand expand. Twenty-five years later, it survives in pockets around the world. But the many dangers it confronts鈥攕ome familiar, others of newer vintage鈥攁re reminders of its fragility. As we enter the next quarter of the 21^st century, the Clough Center takes stock: How has the democratic past, and its present, shaped its multiple futures?

Democracy鈥攚hich has always been aspirational鈥攆aces acute challenges. Across the globe, entrenched autocracies cling to power and quash would-be reformers. Once resonant democratic voices are now barely audible. Even in the historic heartlands where democratic structures and values have grown and matured since the Enlightenment, perils loom large. Bureaucracies shield decisionmakers from ordinary citizens and broken campaign promises sap public trust. Inadequate preparation in civics and history leaves young people cynical, fearful, and ill-equipped for participatory government. An array of forces鈥攆rom advancing technology to shocking violence鈥攖hreaten the cohesion and trust that democracies require.听

Yet there are still reasons for optimism. This year, the Clough Center will bring together scholars, students, journalists and citizens to consider foundational questions that are bothfamiliar and urgent: how to build and enrich democratic governance? What does it mean to livein and conserve a democratic society? The Clough Center invites the Boston College community and the interested public to join us in examining democracy鈥檚 past, investigating its present, and envisioning its futures.

Events are open to the wider BC community and the general public, and most will be streamed online. Please join us for our year-long exploration of 鈥淓nvisioning Democratic Futures,鈥� and add your voice to the conversation.

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