Description
Book SynopsisExamines the civic renewal movement in the United States. This book examines civic innovation since the 1960s as social learning in four arenas (community organizing/development, civic environmentalism, community health, and public journalism), and links local efforts to broader networks and to the development of 'public policy for democracy'.
Trade Review"A new philosophy of organizing is afoot in the land. It works with, as well as opposing, City Hall. It forms ongoing relationships. It takes the long view. It works from the bottom up. It deliberates about ends and means. It crafts voluntary agreements. It fosters common work. After reading this book, you think, 'Maybe we are entering a new era of citizen action and self-government.' I recommend this book to any activist and anyone who wants to understand activism in America." - Jane Mansbridge, Harvard University "Civic Innovation in America is a remarkably detailed catalog of major efforts at civic renewal in health, the environment, journalism, and community organizing - taking place in scores of cities and towns around the country in the past 20 years. Yes - vital, innovative, in-the-trenches civic work in the midst of the Reagan-Bush-New-Democrat era." - Michael Schudson, University of California, San Diego "[This] is a wonderful book, rich in insights and stories of the growth of civic learning, dazzling in its facility with issues of contemporary democratic and social theory.... Civic Innovation in America not only chronicles the broad and diverse stirrings of a movement for democratic revitalization, it aids in bringing the movement into being. It could not come at a more crucial time." - Harry Boyte, University of Minnesota"
Table of ContentsAcknowledgments 1. Civic Innovation and American Politics 2. Community Organizing and Development 3. Civic Environmentalism 4. Community Health and Civic Organizing 5. Public Journalism 6. The Civic Renewal Movement Notes Index
