John Keane is an accomplished author and political theorist known for his work on democracy and political philosophy. He has written extensively on the nature of power, governance, and the role of civil society. His notable books include The Life and Death of Democracy and The New Despotism, which explore the complexities of democratic systems and the challenges they face in contemporary society. In addition to his writing, Keane is a professor at the University of Sydney and has held various academic positions around the world. His research often focuses on the evolution of democratic ideas and practices, making significant contributions to the understanding of political systems and their impact on society.