In this article, Julio Borges Juyent, the former president of the Venezuelan Assembly, discusses the pressing spiritual crisis of democracy as outlined in his recently edited book. The volume, which includes contributions from 30 thinkers across 13 countries, aims to delve deeper than standard discussions about problems in democracy and judicial reforms, focusing instead on the underlying spiritual dilemmas. Borges emphasizes that while much is said about the current state of democracy, there is a need to explore these existential and philosophical questions to understand its erosion.

Borges’s critique points to the transformation of democracy into a simplified form, likening it to a 'nursery for child-citizens', suggesting that citizens are becoming less informed and more reliant on oversimplified narratives. This concern reflects a broader trend in various political landscapes where polarization and authoritarian tendencies are escalating. By framing the discourse around democracy in such terms, Borges aims to stimulate critical thinking and discussion about political engagement and citizen responsibilities in the present climate.

The forthcoming second volume of Borges’s work is expected to further explore these themes and provide additional perspectives and solutions from international scholars. This initiative is timely, considering the ongoing political turbulence in Venezuela and beyond, as it encourages not only a diagnosis of democracy’s malaise but also the exploration of possible remedies that extend beyond mere political reform.