Power of the Demos or Power over the Demos – Condition, Consolidation, Leadership and Threats of Modern Democracy in Political Science Discourse

Abstract

This publication attempts to analyze the condition of contemporary democracy and the processes of its consolidation from the perspective of political science. The key issue is the question of whether modern democratic systems truly uphold the principle of rule by the people (the power of the demos), or whether they are increasingly transforming into systems in which real power is drifting away from the citizens (power over the demos). During the research, a detailed analysis of political and social discourse was conducted, with particular attention paid to the evolution of the language of public debate, the semantic shifts of concepts fundamental to democracy (e.g., freedom, representation, sovereignty, consensus), and the ways in which these concepts are employed by various political and media actors. The study identifies patterns and differences that occur in various social contexts, allowing for the formulation of conclusions relevant to shaping a more conscious, responsible, and inclusive public debate. Attention is also given to the growing phenomena of polarization, populism, the erosion of trust in institutions, and the media-driven fragmentation of the public discourse space. The work concludes with a reflection on possible directions for strengthening democratic legitimacy through civic education, transparent communication, and the accountability of political and media elites.