Civic Engagement Drivers

Civic Engagement Drivers explores the multifaceted issue of why citizens participate in governance, or why they don't. It examines both the individual motivations and the structural factors that either encourage or impede civic action, essential for a healthy democracy. A key insight is that understanding these dual influences—personal values alongside societal structures like electoral systems and government policies—is vital for boosting public participation. For example, having political knowledge is important, but so is having an accessible way to use that knowledge through participation in community organizing. The book uniquely integrates individual-level motivations, such as trust in government and social capital, with broader structural considerations like campaign finance regulations and media landscapes. Providing a comprehensive model, the book progresses from defining core concepts to examining individual factors and then structural influences. It draws upon decades of research, including large-scale surveys and case studies. This comprehensive approach offers practical strategies for policymakers, community organizers, and educators, providing concrete recommendations for enhancing civic engagement and addressing the ongoing debates about declining participation.