Direct Legislation by the Citizenship through the Initiative and Referendum

In this compact but thorough treatise, the author expands on his earlier work on political justice to examine how ordinary citizens can shape law through initiatives and referendums. Using Switzerland as a living laboratory, the book traces the historical development of these mechanisms and explains how they fit within a broader philosophy of equal freedom. The first three chapters lay out the basic structure of Swiss direct legislation, drawing on the author's years of research and personal observations made during an extended stay in the country.

The narrative shows how, in many cantons, the entire electorate participates directly in decisions that elsewhere remain the province of distant legislators. By presenting statistics, contemporary accounts, and comparative analysis, the author invites readers to consider the practical impact of direct democracy on social and economic problems. The work serves as both a guide for reform‑minded citizens and a foundation for further scholarly discussion.