Democracy's Performance

McKenzie asks, “If the ancient Greeks invented democracy in the form of the city-state, and colonial North Americans reinvented it in the nation-state, what democratic forms might the world create in the age of global performance?” He explores this question in relation to the thought of Nietzsche and Marcuse—and in terms of “dissatisfied democrats”: people who strongly believe in democracy but are unhappy with its particular embodiments. Could it be that democracy is an inherently incomplete project, one that is always “to come,” always being invented, always being tested and contested, always being asked to perform?

The Electronic Disturbance Theater demonstrates how the Internet can be used to facilitate social and political engagement and protest. Dubbed “virtual Zapatistas” because of its strong support for the liberation movement in Mexico and throughout Latin America, EDT's actions combine the political struggle for indigenous self-determination with a critique of neoliberalism aka globalization. In the articles and interview that follow, EDT's origins, development, and ongoing actions are examined. You are invited to participate.