Death of Social Democracy Political Consequences in the 21st Century

Lavelle provides an original argument about the death of social democracy. He argues that the political-economic context of the 21st Century means that social democratic projects cannot be revived as a result of the pressures of economic decline since the end of the post-war boom, globalization, European integration and ideological developments in favour of the free market. These pressures have led social democrats to embrace neo-liberal policies and become threatened by minor parties and Independent politicians.This provocative study: argues that social democracy cannot be resurrected; examines how the decline of social democracy has increased popularity of minor parties and independents; and, explores the reasons for social democratic membership and electoral decline. This is an important book for scholars engaged in the future of social democracy and the broader themes of world politics, political parties, social movements and globalization.