Democracy Needs Encounters - A Book Review

What kinds of spaces do we need to foster trust? How can we ensure that these spaces are accessible, inclusive and effective? The existence of open, safe and easily accessible spaces for communities is not the only condition for success. In addition, we need to multiply initiatives and test new approaches that create welcoming environments for deep... See more

For democracy to thrive, citizens don’t just have to have trust in their institutions, but also need to have trust in one another. Without spaces to encounter shared experiences, diverse perspectives and differing opinions, that trust diminishes.

The Broader Goal: Building Trust in ever more diverse and individualized societies

The ultimate objective of this reimagined infrastructure is to build trust in one’s democratic system—not only in state institutions, which are often perceived as bureaucratic and disconnected, but also in our neighbors and society at large. Manthe suggests that trus... See more

Manthe emphasizes that creating opportunities for encounter doesn’t need to involve building new physical spaces. Rather, he frames the encounters that happen daily at supermarkets, in dating apps, cultural centers, parks, or public transport as such – a democratic act. The challenge is about designing systems that encourage, deepen and sustain tho... See more

investment in and conscious design of public and private spaces contributes to fostering connections and developing trust that are foundational to the health of our democracies.

Democracy Needs Encounters

Why Physical Encounters Matter

Manthe argues that while digital encounters can play a role in fostering connection, they are inherently weaker than physical ones. Meeting face-to-face creates a unique awareness of the other person, enabling us to better acknowledge their feelings and sense their emotions. These emotional connections are crucial for... See more