Juergen Habermas

Jürgen Habermas is a German philosopher known for his ideas about democracy and political legitimacy. He argues that legitimate government arises from public discourse, where citizens engage in rational debate and dialogue. For Habermas, legitimacy is not just about laws or power but involves a process of mutual understanding and consent among people. His focus on the "public sphere" emphasizes the importance of open communication in fostering a healthy democracy, where diverse opinions can be expressed and considered, ultimately leading to policies that reflect the will of the people.