Policy Press

Whose Government Is It?

The Renewal of State-Citizen Cooperation

Edited by Henry Tam

Published

Feb 27, 2019

Page count

280 pages

ISBN

978-1529200935

Dimensions

234 x 156 mm

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

Feb 27, 2019

Page count

280 pages

ISBN

978-1529200980

Dimensions

234 x 156 mm

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

Feb 27, 2019

Page count

280 pages

ISBN

978-1529200959

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

Feb 27, 2019

Page count

280 pages

ISBN

978-1529200966

Imprint

Bristol University Press
Whose Government Is It?

Read the policy briefing.

In the media

On our blog: 'The subversion of democracy'

This book brings together leading figures in democratic reform and civic engagement to show why and how better state-citizen cooperation is necessary for achieving positive social change. Their contributions demonstrate that, while protest and non-state action may have their place, citizens must also work effectively with public bodies to secure sustainable improvements.

The authors explain why the problem of civic disengagement poses a major threat, highlight what actions can be taken, and suggest how the underlying obstacles to democratic cooperation between citizens and state institutions can be overcome across a range of policy areas and in varied national contexts.

"...a substantial, go-to text for those who are studying or are interested in political science. It is a complex book, full of facts, analysis and case studies... And while the whole premise of the book may appear to be a somewhat idealistic form of democracy, with plenty of examples and case studies of how cooperation between state and citizen has been highly beneficial, it serves to demonstrate that such a goal can be achieved." Shout Out UK

“At a time of rising authoritarianism and shrinking public spheres, it is instructive and inspiring to read a whole compendium of essays by scholars, practitioners and policymakers who are committed to cooperation between state and citizens. Whose Government Is It? is packed with insights for citizens and officials alike.” Peter Levine, Tufts University

Dr Henry B. Tam is a writer, educator, and former policy head for civil renewal under the last Labour Government. He has been Director of the Forum for Youth Participation & Democracy, University of Cambridge; Lecturer on politics and government for Workers’ Educational Association and the Civil Service College; and Visiting Professor, School of Lifelong Learning, Birkbeck, University of London.

Introduction

Government with the People ~ Henry Tam

Part One: Why We Need State-Citizen Cooperation

Realism and Democratic Renewal ~ Nick Pearce

The Importance of Collective Control ~ Anna Coote

Deliberative Engagement with Complex Policies ~ Simon Burall

The Road to Empowerment ~ Hazel Blears and David Blunkett

Part Two: What Is Required for Effective Engagement

Lessons From Democratic Innovations ~ Graham Smith

The Potential of Community Development ~ Marilyn Taylor

Community Action and Civic Dialogue ~ Barry Quirk

Old Age and Caring Democracy ~ Marian Barnes

Young People and Everyday Democracy ~ James Sloam

Part Three: How To Expand Our Civic Capability

Improving Citizenship Education ~ James Weinberg and Matthew Flinders

Rethinking Civic Roles ~ Jane Roberts

Promoting the ‘Take Part’ Approach ~ Marjorie Mayo, Zoraida Mendiwelso-Bendek and Carol Packham

Developing Public-Cooperative Partnerships ~ Pat Conaty

Conclusion

The Renewal of State-Citizen Cooperation ~ Henry Tam

Related Titles