The Unruly Heart of Freedom: Anne Norton on Wild Democracy

TPL and Toronto Metropolitan University present political scientist and University of Pennsylvania Distinguished Professor Anne Norton, author of Wild Democracy: Anarchy, Courage and Ruling the Law, in conversation with Sanjay Ruparelia at the Toronto Reference Library's Appel Salon.

Democracy is inherently risky, balancing promise and danger. Its promise lies in self-governance; its danger in fear—fear of the unknown, the unruly, and anarchy itself. This fear often leads to authoritarianism, pushing both liberals and conservatives toward excessive rules and regulations. While we've been conditioned to view the public as something to be managed, it's actually the daily ethics of ordinary citizens, struggling to govern themselves, that allows democracy to flourish. Virtues like courage, self-reliance, and solidarity grow in the wild. The real threat isn't anarchy—it's authoritarianism. Anarchy, Norton argues, is democracy's nursery.

In this timely conversation, Norton and Ruparelia will explore the radical possibilities of democratic practice, examining how citizen-led movements and grassroots organizing can reinvigorate democracy in an age of increasing authoritarianism. They will discuss the role of anarchy in democratic thought and how courage in civic life can transform our political landscape.

Anne Norton is the Stacey and Henry Jackson President’s Distinguished Professor of Political Science at the University of Pennsylvania. Her groundbreaking work explores the intersections of democracy, power, and political identity. She has written extensively on American political thought, identity politics, and democratic theory. Her recent book Wild Democracy challenges conventional wisdom about the relationship between order and freedom in democratic societies.

Question and answer session and book signing to follow. Books available for purchase.

Ticket registration for this event is required.

About this Event's Guests:

About Anne Norton

About Sanjay Ruparelia

Read More:

Wild Democracy: Anarchy, Courage and Ruling the Law

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This event is part of our On Civil Society series, where we host local and international authors, activists and academics in conversation about the most critical topics of our time. Generously supported in part by Chris M. Reid.

About the series:

On the Frontlines of Democracy is a public lecture series to analyze the trajectory of democracy in the twenty-first century. In every region, the prospects of democracy face serious challenges, old and new. Can we protect constitutional rights and renew collective self-rule in an era of popular mistrust, severe partisanship and resurgent nationalism? Can they reduce inequalities of power, wealth and status, defend deep diversity and confront climate change in the new digital age? Can we develop innovative strategies to revitalize civic engagement, empower public institutions and resist autocratic threats? And what can we offer, learn and do to promote the prospects of democracy in our increasingly post-western global order?

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Note: This is an in-person event at The Bram and Bluma Appel Salon, the premiere event space for Toronto Public Library’s cultural and heritage programming located on the second floor of the Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge Street).

Arrive early, meet people. The talk starts at 7 pm, but doors open at 6 pm. Come early so you can chat with your fellow literature lovers, and make new friends.

Reminder! We oversell these events to make sure that most people have an opportunity to attend. Tickets are only guaranteed until 15 minutes before the show starts, at which point we will start opening up available spots to the rush line.

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Accessibility at Toronto Public Library

We are committed to making our content accessible to as many Torontonians as possible. Please call or email us if you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request accommodation to participate in this program. Please let us know as far in advance as possible and we will do our best to meet your request. At least three weeks’ notice is preferred. Phone 416-393-7099 or email accessibleservices@tpl.ca