Question

Explain critically the aspects of political participation.

Answer 1

Answer:

Politics and Participation

Politics and ParticipationCarole Jean Uhlaner, in International Encyclopedia of the Social & Behavioral Sciences (Second Edition), 2015

Politics and ParticipationCarole Jean Uhlaner, in International Encyclopedia of the Social & Behavioral Sciences (Second Edition), 2015Political participation refers to the activities of the mass public in politics, including, for example, voting in elections, helping a political campaign, giving money to a candidate or cause, writing or calling officials, petitioning, boycotting, demonstrating, and working with other people on issues. Political participation figures in philosophical discussions of democracy and representative government since ancient times because it provides the means for citizens to communicate their views. Normative interest in the topic remains vigorous (see Democratic Theory). This article focuses upon the empirical study of political participation. Scholars look for systematic patterns that explain why some individuals are inactive and why others choose certain activities. The patterns reflect the political context and both reflect and affect the structure of political power.