Who's Afraid of Political Education?: The Challenge to Teach Civic Competence and Democratic Participation

Citizens must have the knowledge, abilities, and confidence to participate effectively in public affairs for democracy to work. This book examines the reasons why the civic competence gap exists and proposes ways to close it, such as teaching people differently to ensure they have the skills they need to engage in politics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 238 pages
Publication date: 02 May 2023
Publisher: Bristol University Press

Democracy is a cornerstone of modern society, empowering citizens to shape their destinies and influence the course of their nations. However, the true power of democracy lies in the hands of the informed and engaged citizens who understand the intricacies of public policy and have the skills and confidence to participate effectively in the political process. Unfortunately, a significant gap exists between the level of civic competence among citizens and the demands of a democratic society. This gap can be exploited by propagandists and demagogues who seek to manipulate public opinion and undermine the democratic process.

To address this issue, this book brings together leading experts on learning for democracy from around the world. These experts explore why and how the gap in civic competence should be bridged, drawing on research findings and case examples from the UK, the US, and elsewhere. The book sets out to answer critical questions such as:

Why is change necessary? What can be taught differently to ensure effective political engagement? How can a lasting impact be made in improving citizens' learning for democratic participation?

The book highlights the importance of education in developing civic competence and promoting democratic values. It emphasizes the need for schools and universities to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become active and engaged citizens. This includes teaching students about the political system, the importance of voting, the role of civil society, and the importance of media literacy.

Furthermore, the book recognizes the importance of community engagement in promoting civic competence. It suggests that community organizations, local governments, and other stakeholders should work together to create opportunities for citizens to participate in public affairs and develop their skills and confidence. This can include community meetings, public forums, and workshops that provide citizens with the opportunity to learn from experts and engage in meaningful discussions.

The book also emphasizes the importance of promoting civic literacy and media literacy. It suggests that citizens should be able to critically evaluate the information they receive from the media and understand the political process. This includes teaching citizens how to identify propaganda, how to analyze political arguments, and how to engage with the media in a constructive and informed manner.

Finally, the book recognizes the importance of promoting lifelong learning and the development of civic skills. It suggests that citizens should be encouraged to continue learning and developing their skills throughout their lives, including through participation in community organizations, political campaigns, and other civic activities.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of the gap in civic competence and offers practical solutions to address it. By promoting education, community engagement, civic literacy, and lifelong learning, we can create a more informed and engaged citizenry that is capable of shaping a more democratic and inclusive society.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781447366959