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Title:	Representing Future Generations: Political Presentism and Democratic Trusteeship
Author:	Thompson, Dennis F.
Citation:	Thompson, Dennis F. 2010. Representing future generations: political presentism and democratic trusteeship. Critical Review of International and Political Philosophy 13(1): 17-37.
Full Text & Related Files:	Representing Future Generations-Barry final.doc (106.4Kb; Microsoft Word)  Representing Future Generations-Barry final.pdf (232.8Kb; PDF)
Abstract:	Democracy is prone to what may be called presentism—a bias in the laws in favour of present over future generations. I identify the characteristics of democracies that lead to presentism, and examine the reasons that make it a serious problem. Then I consider why conventional theories are not adequate to deal with it, and develop a more satisfactory alternative approach, which I call democratic trusteeship. Present generations can represent future generations by acting as trustees of the democratic process. The general principle is that present generations should act to protect the democratic process itself over time. They should try to make sure that future citizens continue to have competent control over their collective decision making.
Published Version:	doi:10.1080/13698230903326232
Terms of Use:	This article is made available under the terms and conditions applicable to Open Access Policy Articles, as set forth at http://nrs.harvard.edu/urn-3:HUL.InstRepos:dash.current.terms-of-use#OAP
Citable link to this page:	http://nrs.harvard.edu/urn-3:HUL.InstRepos:9464286

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  Peer reviewed scholarly articles from the Faculty of Arts and Sciences of Harvard University

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