Read this recently in the wake of "300", movie on the Greek defence against Persian invasion.
Great read, cracks along but plenty info. Gives background to all the societies involved, Spartan (Narcisstic Facists), Persian (Nomadic Facists) and Athenian (Democratic Facists). Pretty good re-appraisal of Herodotus as well.
One aspect of Athenian Democracy it describes needs an update and resurrection.
"Ostrakos" whereby once a year the electorate had the option to vote on
ostrasizing one of the politicians who had pissed them off most. It wasn't always invoked but was always there as an option, the politician voted had to leave Athens forever, no questions asked.
I say bring it back and keep the buggers on their toes.