New Citizenship, 4th Edition

Craig A. Rimmerman is professor of public policy and political science at Hobart and William Smith Colleges and editor of Westview's Dilemmas in American Politics series. His books include The Lesbian and Gay Movements (Westview Press).

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"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

• Tables and Illustrations Acknowledgments Acronyms 1 Introduction to the Core Dilemma 2 Theoretical Perspectives on the New Citizenship The Constitutional Context for Citizen Participation Political Socialization and Citizenship in American Politics The Participatory Democratic Tradition The Critique of the Democratic Theory of Elitism The Theoretical Basis for the New Citizenship Conclusion 3 Civic Indifference in Contemporary American Politics Measuring Civic Indifference American Youth and Civic Indifference Sources of Citizen Activism Conclusion 4 Civility, Stability, and Foundations for the New Citizenship The Civil Rights Movement and Foundations for the New Citizenship Challenges to the New Citizenship Conclusion 5 Contemporary Reflections on the New Citizenship The Me Generation New Citizenship Components Conclusion 6 Service Learning and the New Citizenship Critical Education for Citizenship and Educational Approaches The Clinton National Service Proposal and the Case for Service Learning The Critique of Service Civic Indifference and the New Citizenship Conclusion Appendix 1: The Federalist No. 10 Appendix 2: Organizations for Political, Social, and Economic Change Discussion Questions Glossary Notes Bibliography About the Book and Author Index