CITIZENSHIP AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

Abstract
■ Abstract Is it possible for people to join their way to good citizenship? Contem- porary thinking, both academic and popular, often leaves the impression that it is, but a careful investigation of the evidence raises serious doubts. In actuality, belonging to voluntary associations is a woefully,inadequate foundation,for good citizenship for three primary reasons: People join groups that are homogeneous, not heterogeneous; civic participation does not lead to, and may turn people away from, political partic- ipation; and not all groups,promote,democratic,values. Good citizens need to learn that democracy is messy, inefficient, and conflict-ridden. Voluntary associations do not teach these lessons.

This publication has 59 references indexed in Scilit: