Political and Civic Engagement: Multidisciplinary Perspectives

Based upon a three-year multidisciplinary international research project, the volume examines the interplay of factors affecting civic and political engagement. It considers participation across different generations, nations and ethnic groups, and the shifting variety of forms that 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 more young people turning to street demonstrations, charitable activities, consumer activism and social media to express their political and civic views? - what are the barrires that hinder political participation by women, ethnic minorities and migrants? - How can greater levels of engagement with public issues be encouraged among all citizens?. Together the chapters provide a Comprehensive overview of current understandings of the factors and processes that influence citizens' patterns of political and civic engagement. They also present a set of evidence-based recommendations for policy, practice and intervention that can be used by political and civil society actors to enhance levels of engagement.