Robert dahl is a long-established, prominent political theorist. he is particularly known for his many writings on the theory and practice of democracy.  on democracy, a relatively short book, presents dahl’s well-honed beliefs about the value and significance of that form of government. the book begins with a brief history of democracy’s theoretical and practical development. this section provides preliminary definitions for the term “democracy,” as well as related concepts. in general, this section provides a foundation for the slightly more sophisticated discussion of the subsequent sections