X-Democracy for the new Millenium: Modern Technology as a Factor X?

The author addresses contemporary challenges in safeguarding democracy in the age of modern technologies, emphasizing the urgent need for systemic change. Reports from the CoE and the UN warn of declining democratic standards, growing public dissatisfaction, and diminishing trust in the modern state as a civilizational achievement. These trends could lead to its downfall and, consequently, to the erosion of human rights and fundamental freedoms. By referencing selected reflections from established classical thinkers, the author outlines the historical development of democracy within the framework of the modern state. The author then critiques the prevailing democratic model and its evident shortcomings. He further explores the dual role of modern technology, assessing both its risks and its potential to serve as a transformative force in enhancing democratic governance. The author advocates that technology must be effectively employed to ensure that the modern state serves the people – an essential condition for its legitimacy.