Description
Book SynopsisThis book brings together leading figures in democratic reform and civic engagement to show why and how better state-citizen cooperation is needed to improve democracy and public service. It explains why the problem of civic disengagement poses a major threat and shows how obstacles to democratic cooperation between citizens and state institutions can be overcome.
Trade Review"...a substantial, go-to text for those who are studying or are interested in political science. It is a complex book, full of facts, analysis and case studies... And while the whole premise of the book may appear to be a somewhat idealistic form of democracy, with plenty of examples and case studies of how cooperation between state and citizen has been highly beneficial, it serves to demonstrate that such a goal can be achieved." Shout Out UK * Shout Out UK, 19th March 2019 *
“At a time of rising authoritarianism and shrinking public spheres, it is instructive and inspiring to read a whole compendium of essays by scholars, practitioners and policymakers who are committed to cooperation between state and citizens. Whose Government Is It? is packed with insights for citizens and officials alike.” Peter Levine, Tufts University
Table of ContentsIntroduction Government with the People ~ Henry Tam Part One: Why We Need State-Citizen Cooperation Realism and Democratic Renewal ~ Nick Pearce The Importance of Collective Control ~ Anna Coote Deliberative Engagement with Complex Policies ~ Simon Burall The Road to Empowerment ~ Hazel Blears and David Blunkett Part Two: What Is Required for Effective Engagement Lessons From Democratic Innovations ~ Graham Smith The Potential of Community Development ~ Marilyn Taylor Community Action and Civic Dialogue ~ Barry Quirk Old Age and Caring Democracy ~ Marian Barnes Young People and Everyday Democracy ~ James Sloam Part Three: How To Expand Our Civic Capability Improving Citizenship Education ~ James Weinberg and Matthew Flinders Rethinking Civic Roles ~ Jane Roberts Promoting the ‘Take Part’ Approach ~ Marjorie Mayo, Zoraida Mendiwelso-Bendek and Carol Packham Developing Public-Cooperative Partnerships ~ Pat Conaty Conclusion The Renewal of State-Citizen Cooperation ~ Henry Tam
