CHAP 2 (POL 211-Fall 2019 )


                                Chap 2 - Government Institutions and Political Actors

            “So what is the best way to encourage citizen participation in government processes? It seems clear that additional citizen participation may enhance policy capacity at the state and local levels, but some programs designed to involve citizens are more effective than others…whatever the form of public environments, its effectiveness needs to be considered.”
           As this quote states, enhancing public involvement in government processes help reserve a log pattern of citizen withdrawal, not only from politics but also from communities. The relationship between government and society is changing. Many people feel a sense of commitment to their neighborhood and are actively involved in activities to improve the quality of life there. They may also be involved in the decision making about the municipal budget. Active citizens don’t want the government to provide standard solution for everything. They prefer a tailor-made approach and authorities that think along with them. So, citizens and governments are devising new ways of relating to each other and working together. This is one of the great ways to increase citizen participation in government processes. The government main purpose is to reflect people’s basic rights and almost all citizens have the right to participate in government processes despite the ways available to do it. There are many ways to participate in government processes. For example, by looking for information in newspaper, and reference materials and judging its accuracy, by signing a petition, by campaigning for a candidate, by running for office, by holding public office, by serving the country through military or other service.
              Deciding whether to participate and how much time to spend participating is important. To make good decisions we must think and know the purpose of our government, ho satisfied you are with the way the government is working. We should be involved in government processes if we want our voices to be heard. However, if you do not think the government is protecting your basic rights, you should still be required to obey the law.
Reference:
Kraft, M. E., & Furlong, S. R. (2010). Public policy: Politics, analysis, and alternatives, 6th ed. Washington, D.C: CQ.

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