The New State

« The New State » by Mary Parker Follett is a visionary work on participatory democracy and group organization, first published in 1918. Follett challenges the limitations of traditional representative democracy, arguing that it fails to engage citizens in meaningful ways and results in a fragmented society. Instead, she advocates for a new model of democracy based on local group organization, where individuals come together in neighborhoods, associations, and professional circles to discuss issues, set common goals, and transform diversity into collective strength.Folletts vision is deeply rooted in the principles of federalism and creative citizenship. She imagines a society where local groups form the building blocks of a larger, interconnected system, gradually expanding from the neighborhood to the national and international levels. This structure, she argues, empowers individuals to participate directly in public deliberation and civic education, fostering a sense of responsibility and belonging. The process of group decision-making is central to her theory, as it encourages cooperation, mutual understanding, and innovative solutions to societal challenges.Drawing on her practical experience in community work, Follett provides both a philosophical framework and actionable insights for democratic renewal. Her ideas anticipate contemporary debates on deliberative democracy and the importance of local networks in shaping public policy. « The New State » remains a foundational text for scholars and practitioners interested in participatory democracy, federalism, and the transformative potential of group organization.Readers seeking inspiration for democratic innovation and civic engagement will find enduring value in Folletts vision of a society where every individual contributes to the common good through active participation and creative citizenship.