PRIVATISATION AND DEMOCRACY: THE CASE OF PUBLIC SPACE

Abstract

This thesis explores the complex relationship between the privatization of public space and its consequences for democracy. The thesis contradicts popular narratives, which frequently oversimplify the effects of privatisation by concentrating only on problems related to ownership and access. This work attempts to provide a more nuanced view of privatisation and its possible consequences on democratic values through a philosophical lens. This thesis establishes criteria for ideal public spaces by drawing on Kohn’s tripartite structure of public space, Hegel's theory of recognition and Christiano's democratic theory, which emphasize the importance of diversity, disagreement, and cognitive biases in a democratic society as well as the role of public space in promoting democracy and liberal rights. It then explores the relationship between privatisation and democracy using this theoretical framework, highlighting potential counter-democratic effects. I argue that decisions affecting civil society shouldn't be left to the exclusive control of private businesses. However, I also recognise the democratic advantages of private endeavors and propose that private organizations may legitimately be given decision-making authority. I conclude by examining how social shame shapes business and individual behaviour in the contemporary world. I draw attention to the influence that social rejection and exclusion have on behaviour and emphasize how relevant this is in the context of democracy and privatisation.