William Nelson

This book analyzes and assesses theories of democracy emanating from studies in a variety of disciplines, and proposes answers to a wide range of questions in moral and political philosophy, philosophy of law and democratic theory. Taken together, these answers constitute the basis for a theory that justifies political democracy.

Complicated Lives examines the greatest conundrum of the modern world: why, despite being richer, healthier and more empowered than ever before, do we continue to feel threatened, under pressure and stressed? There's no denying that we've never had it so good, yet the stark truth is that levels of happiness are unchanged since the 1950s. Offering strategies and insights for avoiding 'the malaise of modernity' whilst exploiting positive experiences the 21st century has to offer, Michael Willmott and William Nelson take readers on a journey of self-discovery into the realities of life in today's complex, multi-channel world.

The crux of the book is that people now live complicated lives. It outlines the different areas of complexity in consumers’ lives: the vast range of choices and information now available to the consumer; expectations and aspirations constantly on the rise; fluid and flexible family lives; an ongoing struggle to redefine roles and responsibilities in the household; complex and demanding careers, new anxieties to deal with … to name but a few.The book suggests how companies can prosper by helping consumers handle these complexities and how customer relationship management can be improved by recognition of the particular issues that particular consumers may face. It outlines to organizations the huge opportunities available to them if they can really understand this critical aspect of people’ s lives.The book draws on many resources, both commercial and academic, and in particular on a three-year project carried out with Abbey National, the retail bank.