In this volume, some of the Philippines' leading social scientists explore the challenges posed by contemporary democratization. They inquire into the nature, main issues, trends and prospects of this first-order phenomenon. The authors assess the roles played by the national leadership, the legislature, local governments and the military in the process of national democratization. The mutual relationship between democratic structures and economic outcomes is critically examined. A probe into non-governmental and people's organizations as instruments of people empowerment is complemented by an analysis of armed movements which might yet successfully locate their legitimate place in mainstream Philippine politics. The central role of the demos is underscored in this volume by scholarly appeals to re-focus political science research in the country and to develop methodologies which allow the public's voice to register well and become an integral part of a sustainable democratic regime.

The contributors are (in alphabetical order): Jose V. Abueva; Alex B. Brillantes, Jr.; Renato De Castro; Emmanuel S. de Dios; Ronald D. Holmes; Felipe B. Miranda; Temario C. Rivera; Steven Rood; Jorge V. Tigno; and Renato S. Velasco.