Abstract
"Based upon a three-year multi-disciplinary international research project, Political and Civic Participation examines the interplay of factors affecting civic and political engagement and participation across different generations, nations and ethnic groups, and the shifting variety of forms this participation can take. The book draws upon an extensive body of data to answer the following key questions: - Why do many citizens fail to vote in elections? - Why are young people turning increasingly to street demonstrations, charitable activities, consumer activism and social media to express their political and civic views? - What are the barriers which hinder political participation by women, ethnic minorities and migrants? - How can greater levels of engagement with public issues be encouraged amongst all citizens? Together, the chapters in this volume provide a comprehensive overview of current understandings of the factors and processes which influence citizens' patterns of political and civic engagement. The book draws on theoretical insights provided by a range of disciplines including Politics, Sociology, Social Policy, Psychology and Education. With contributions from leading international figures working in a range of disciplines, the book offers a uniquely authoritative and coherent overview of the field. Political and Civic Participation provides an invaluable resource for all those who are concerned with citizens' levels of engagement including: researchers and academics in the social sciences; politicians and political institutions; media professionals; ministries of education, educational professionals and schools; youth workers and education NGOs; and leaders of ethnic minority and migrant organizations and communities"--