Synopses & Reviews
Why do so many Americans fail to participate in their communities' affairs? What role should the citizenry play in our political system? In addressing these concerns, the text both evaluates the dilemma of participation, civility, and stability at a time when civic indifference is a national problem and outlines its sources, suggesting ways in which Americans can conquer their apathy toward government. This third edition expands the discussion of the internet as an element of the New Citizenship and outlines President George W. Bush's National Service proposals. Finally, the third edition integrates the impact of September 11, 2001 on American civic life, with a particular focus on the consequences of that cataclysmic event for college students and their conceptions of participation and citizenship. Discusses political issues that connect with students, promoting classroom discussion and debate. Presents an even balance of theory and case studies. Emphasizes relevance of activism and participation in government. Updated to include the impact of 9/11 on civic life and President George W. Bushs national service proposals. Identifies alternative forms of participation (besides voting) seized upon by the citizenry to register discontent with its representative government.
Review
This readable, engaging book addresses and urgent concern of our times, the decline of participation of college students in the democracy. Readers will come away with insight into both traditional and new forms of democratic participation and their appeal for the next generation. This an invaluable resource for faculty and students interested in American politics, history, social movements and civic engagement. Any faculty member teaching a service-learning course in any discipline will find it helpful for thinking through their course strategy and for civic reflection with their students.”
Elizabeth L. Hollander, Executive Director, Campus Compact
A helpful first step in making political science courses relevant to our students once again. It is definitely worth considering for classroom adoption.”American Political Science Review
Review
"Craig Rimmerman is among the few political scientists who both examine problems and offer solutions.
The New Citizenship: Unconventional Politics, Activism, and Service draws upon the insights of political theorists and practitioners, assesses present-day participatory democracy, and offers recommendations for its improvement. This is a book that invites readers to learn - and then to take action."
MaryAnne Borrelli, Director, Holleran Center for Community Action and Public Policy, Connecticut College
"At few times in our history have we needed more understanding of the relationship of citizenship to a healthy democracy as we do now. Craig Rimmerman has done a masterful job in challenging us to think about the means to citizenship, but more importantly, the ends of sustained and enlightened civic engagement."
Suzanne W. Morse, Ph.D., Executive Director, Pew Partnership for Change
Synopsis
The author's central theme-that we are not born citizens, but must be educated and trained to be citizens-is even more timely today, and he updates the new edition of this popular textbook to provide recent examples of the need for "new citizenship"
Synopsis
Now revised and updated, this book examines the variety of ways that citizens in the United States engage in their communities and American politics and where the line dividing acceptable and unacceptable discourse and activities lies.
About the Author
Craig A. Rimmerman is professor of public policy and political science at Hobart and William Smith Colleges and editor of Westviews Dilemmas in American Politics series. His books include The Lesbian and Gay Movements (Westview Press).