Danielle Allen on Civic Agency in a Digital Age

Professor Danielle Allen describes three types of civic agent in the digital age: engaged citizens, activists, and politicians. All three are essential to democratic practice, but frequently (though not always) differ on the goals they pursue, types of action they take, and strategies of participation they deploy in seeking voice and influence. Professor Allen argues that the Ten Questions for Change Makers can serve as a tool for reflection and contemplation of possible consequences for each civic role young people might take on. This process can help young people develop into more equitable, efficacious, and self-protective civic actors themselves, whatever the type. See more at "What Makes Democracy Work?: Citizens and Civic Participation."

Why do we care that governments should rest on the consent of each and every one of us? Being human involves seeking to control one’s life. Achieving that requires having a role in politics because political decisions have such a big impact on our life. The idea of human rights captures the notion that every human being ought to have a chance to control his or her own life, including through political participation.   –– Danielle S. Allen

 

Danielle Allen on the Ten Questions (Short Version)

Danielle Allen on the Ten Questions (7' 38'')