Transformation of Political Participation in Contemporary Democracies: The Decline of Traditional Parties and the Rise of New Social Movements The decline of traditional political parties and the concomitant rise of new social movements have prompted a profound rethinking of political participation, representation, and legitimacy within contemporary democratic polities. Once considered the bedrock institutions of democratic … Continue reading To what extent does the decline of traditional political parties and the rise of new social movements signify a transformation in modes of political participation, representation, and legitimacy in contemporary democratic polities?