![]( "Voters in 2020")
How is political participation studied?
How is it studied?
schools of thought in participation literature
for this intellectual history, ask yourself:
- where did the ideas originate?
- how long did school last?
- what discipline(s)does it borrow from?
- what are the major arguments?
How is it studied?
![]( "Evolution of participation scholarship")
Why is political participation important?
Why is it important?
- participation gives citizens a voice
- it connects citizens to leaders
- (we think) it’s good for Democracy
Why is it important?
the paradox of political participation in America
- education levels have risen over time
- yet, ~1/2 the electorate votes in presidential elections
Why is it important?
interpretating the paradox
- political scientists: more citizens should!
- economists: it’s odd that so many citizens do!
which interpretation do you agree with?
Why do[n’t] people participate?
Why do[n’t] people participate?
people don’t get involved because they lack the means
- time, money, civic skills (learned in school, church, etc.)
- structural barriers (voter suppression/dilution, etc.)
Why do[n’t] people participate?
people don’t get involved because they lack the motive
- don’t know much about politics (political sophistication)
- politics is boring to them (political interest)
- don’t thing the system will do what’s right (trust)
- politicians don’t respond to them (external efficacy)
- don’t think they can make a difference (internal efficacy)
- aren’t oriented to politics (party, ideology)
Why do[n’t] people participate?
people don’t get involved because they lack the opportunity
- no one asked them to participate (political recruitment/mobilization)
- biases in recruitment/mobilization can lead to biases in representation
