"From Dewey's extensive writings, Caspary draws a concrete politics of participatory democracy, solving classic dilemmas confronting both democratic theorists and citizen activists. He compares Dewey's views with the full range of approaches in contemporary democratic theory and explores the underpinnings of Dewey's political theory by offering a thorough and innovative account of his philosophy of science, social science, and ethics.".

"Caspary brings Dewey's abstract theories down to earth with examples from present-day social and political experiments, including progressive education, common-ground dialogues on abortion, the South African program for truth and reconciliation, and worker self-management cooperatives. These cases illustrate Dewey's linking of political action, social experimentation, and public discourse. They pin down specific meanings for Dewey's sometimes vague political maxims and suggest workable programs.".

"Throughout, Caspary demonstrates the courage and vision of Dewey's unwavering commitment to participatory democracy."--BOOK JACKET.