Abstract
The core of Karl Popper's theory of democracy is re-examined here in light of some of his most recent thoughts on the subject. His discussion of the paradox of democracy contributes a novel – though ultimately unsuccessful – argument to current debates between right-based and goal-based theories of democracy. His theory is also of political interest in a world with so many emerging democracies, because he is much more concerned than most contemporary democratic theorists with the morality and politics of fragile and unstable democratic systems. Nevertheless, his provocative discussion of the dangers of democracies being voted out of existence fails to advise democrats on how to prevent such a situation or on what to do should one arise.
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