Environmental Law and Democratic Legitimacy

40 Pages Posted: 13 May 2015

See all articles by Douglas R. Williams

Douglas R. Williams

Saint Louis University - School of Law

Date Written: 1994

Abstract

This article examines two conceptions of the democratic process – “liberal economic theory” and “civic republican theory.” It concludes that neither theory satisfies its own respective criteria for legitimacy in the context of environmental policymaking. The article advocates a Deweyan-style pragmatism in environmental policymaking, recognizing that the best we can hope for is “muddling through.” The article also responds to criticisms that have been leveled against this inherently incremental approach.

Suggested Citation

Williams, Douglas R., Environmental Law and Democratic Legitimacy (1994). 4 Duke Environmental Law & Policy Forum 1 (1994), Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1961250

Douglas R. Williams (Contact Author)

Saint Louis University - School of Law ( email )

100 N. Tucker Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63101
United States

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