Renewing democracy in young America

Political participation is paramount in a successful democracy, yet a strong sense of civic identity remains elusive in 21st century America. In Renewing Democracy in Young America, Hart and Youniss explore the idea that democracy depends on incorporating citizenship into long-term psychological identities. Proposing that 16- and 17-year-olds be able to vote in municipal elections and suggesting that schools create science-based, community-oriented environmental engagement programs, Hart and Youniss expound that by starting young and starting local, with direct citizen-participatory experiences, we can successfully create active and committed citizens.