Direct Democracy TODAY

Leading Together

Out NOW exclusively on AMAZON

About Direct Democracy TODAY

'Direct Democracy TODAY'

Have Our Politicians Sold Out?' This ground-breaking book challenges the integrity of representative democracy, probing issues of political transparency, accountability, and genuine representation.

It poses crucial questions: Do we need greater political transparency and accountability? Are citizens authentically represented? Could Direct Democracy offer a more effective alternative, and how can it fortify democracy against erosion?

Explore the intricacies of delegated authority, scrutinize the Swiss model's unique features, and uncover conditions ripe for political reform through referendums and citizens' initiatives.

The narrative dissects representative democracy's complexities, showcasing how the Swiss rotational presidency fosters balance and consensus. Anchored in 'popular sovereignty,' the Swiss model empowers citizens through direct democratic tools, safeguarding free speech, promoting inclusivity, evidence-based decision-making, and countering special interests.

"Direct Democracy TODAY" issues a call for reform, advocating increased use of referendums and citizens' initiatives to revitalize democracy. Embark on a thought-provoking journey with 'Direct Democracy TODAY' – 'Beyond the Ballot: Unveiling the Forces Shaping Democracy.'"

£10.99 ON AMAZON

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BOOK 1 IN THE THOMAS MERCER SERIES "ENLIGHTENED"

Available exclusively on AMAZON, "ENLIGHTENED" is a delightful blend of humour, adventure, and a serious message. If you love stories with a meaningful point but told with plenty of laughs, featuring fondue, Swiss chocolate, and the escapades of a man on a quest to discover Direct Democracy, this book is for you!

Join Thomas Mercer, an intrepid Englishman, as he travels through Switzerland, diving into the country's rich history, jazz music, rock legends, vineyards, and even islands in the middle of lakes—some famous, some hidden gems. Along the way, Thomas learns about the Swiss practice of Direct Democracy that’s been thriving for 175 years, and these lightbulb moments change his perspective on governance forever.

My previous book, "Direct Democracy TODAY," was a serious analysis of governance systems. But "ENLIGHTENED" takes a different route—it's a fun, light-hearted adventure with unforgettable characters and witty dialogue. So, grab a copy, sit back, and enjoy the ride!

£10.99 ON AMAZON

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BOOK 2 IN THE THOMAS MERCER SERIES - GRASSROOTS

In "Grassroots," the second book in the Thomas Mercer series Thomas takes a sabbatical from his work as a start-up advisor and embarks on his second profound journey to understand the unique political system of Switzerland, especially its practice of direct democracy. This quest is inspired by the desire to learn how a small country has managed to cultivate a happy, healthy, peaceful, and successful society over the centuries.

The journey starts with the author's introduction to the book "Societal Fabric Guiding Principles" by Jean-Pierre Bourdon, which sparks his interest in Swiss governance and leads to a trip to the canton of Valais, where the 1839 uprising demanded more political rights and greater autonomy through referendums and initiatives.

Throughout the book, the author takes the reader on various adventures, from a discussion with Pierre in Lutry about cantonal autonomy to a day trip to Interlaken, where the story of Beatus fighting a dragon mirrors the struggle against oppressive powers. The halls of Château Chillon and the tale of François Bonivard serve as metaphors for political disillusionment, highlighting the frustration of unchanged governance despite active participation.

The narrative also delves into the significant historical events that shaped Swiss democracy, such as the cholera epidemic that catalysed a push towards greater participatory governance, leading to the right to national referendums in 1987 and popular constitutional initiatives in 1891. The author reflects on the foundational oath of Rutli, where three cantons united to resist the Habsburgs' expansion, symbolizing the Swiss commitment to self-determination and decentralized power.

The journey culminates on Swiss National Day, where the author witnesses a vibrant celebration by Lake Geneva. The festivities, marked by singing, fireworks, and regional food, embody the spirit of Swiss unity and resilience. Thomas' friend Pierre, now the mayor of Cully, delivers a rousing speech that underscores the ongoing fight to preserve Swiss sovereignty against modern colonial-like forces that threaten direct democracy.

"Grassroots" follows book 1 "ENLIGHTENED" and is a compelling exploration of Swiss direct democracy, specifically at cantonal and municipal level, emphasising historical resistance, and the enduring spirit of self-determination.

It serves as a call to learn from successful models of governance and to strive for a society where power is decentralized, and local needs and preferences shape policies. The book ends on a note of profound hope, celebrating the Swiss commitment to democracy and the potential for other societies to adopt similar principles for better governance.

£10.99 ON AMAZON

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Book 3 in the Thomas Mercer Series "ALLIANCE"

Brace yourselves, because *ALLIANCE*, Book Three in the Thomas Mercer Series, has officially landed on Amazon!

In this latest chapter, our favourite British business advisor Thomas Mercer returns to Switzerland—not just for the cheese (though there’s no shortage of that), but to dig deeper into the mysterious magic of Swiss direct democracy.

In *ENLIGHTENED* (Book 1), Thomas crisscrossed Switzerland, meeting characters who helped him grasp why direct democracy works so well here. Alongside enough Swiss cheese to fuel a small alpine village, Thomas found an antidote to his disillusionment with his own political system back home.

In Book 2, *GRASSROOTS*, Thomas dives even deeper, witnessing firsthand how the Swiss love taking matters into their own hands at the cantonal and communal levels. The shocker? Ordinary folks are trusted to make real decisions! Wild, right?

And now, in *ALLIANCE*, Thomas spends the second half of his sabbatical year going medieval—literally. Guided by a monk who’s equal parts military tactician and mountain guide, he uncovers dusty parchments and the Swiss knack for dodging empires and big-headed rulers.

Plus, with some unexpected vineyard inspections thrown in, he gets a taste of how history and philosophy have shaped this alpine democracy. And just when you think he’s lost to history, the “No Farmers, No Food” movement brings him hurtling back to the present and a trip to Wales, filled with fresh hope for real democracy back home.

Get ready for a journey that’s as much about Swiss mountains as it is about modern democracy, with plenty of laughs, cheese, and a sprinkle of hope. *ALLIANCE* is out now—don’t miss it!

ALLIANCE is available on AMAZON at £10.99

THE DIRECT DEMOCRACY LIBRARY - Uncovering Swiss Style Direct Democracy

If you're looking for the largest collection of articles and links related to Swiss Style Direct Democracy, you've come to the right place.

This resource features over 130 articles that explain what direct democracy is and how it functions within the Swiss context. You’re welcome to copy or repost any of these articles without needing my permission.

You can also find me on X at @DirectDemToday

"ALLIANCE – Oath of Allegiance and SUBSIDIARITY – Gateway to Democracy can each be enjoyed as stand-alone novels.

It’s here!

My new novel – SUBSIDIARITY: GATEWAY TO DEMOCRACY – has just been published and is now available on Amazon.

This is my most ambitious story yet – a thought-provoking and timely read that might just be the summer novel you've been waiting for.

What if democracy isn’t dying—but just needs a good walk?

Subsidiarity takes readers on a vibrant 30-day trek across Switzerland, where four unlikely companions—a former Cistercian monk, a Benedictine dropout, a weathered farmer, and a British start-up advisor—set out on foot to rediscover a radical yet ancient idea: that decisions should be made as close to the people as possible.

Blending laugh-out-loud camaraderie with deep philosophical inquiry, their journey is part pilgrimage, part civic adventure. Along the way, they cross alpine ridges, whisper through forgotten valleys, and encounter poets, prophets, and politicians—some real, others imagined—all offering clues to the enduring power of Swiss direct democracy.

Threaded through their path is a darker vision: a future where democratic governance has quietly been replaced by algorithmic rule and centralized control. Yet amid the looming spectre of digital dystopia, Switzerland stands as a stubborn holdout—and perhaps a guidepost.

This is a story about reclaiming voice, conscience, and community in an age that too often mistakes efficiency for wisdom. Witty, profound, and unexpectedly hopeful, Subsidiarity is a love letter to localism, liberty, and the belief that freedom, like a mountain trail, is best navigated step by step, together.

£12.99 on AMAZON