The 10 Best Books for Civic Engagement
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Here’s my curated list of the 10 best books for civic engagement, in no particular order.
- The Republic by Plato — The origination of political science and a brilliant critique of government that is still important today.
- Beyond Good & Evil: Prelude to a Philosophy of the Future by Friedrich Nietzsche — Probably Nietzsche’s most cogent statement of his views: that traditional morality is subjective and that people must evolve to a higher understanding of what’s valuable and what is not.
- The Civic Engagement Handbook: A Complete Guide to Designing and Implementing Civic Engagement Programs by Hannah E. Grady — A practical guide that outlines effective strategies for implementing civic engagement initiatives.
- Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community by Robert D. Putnam — An analysis of the decline of social capital in America and the implications for civil engagement.
- The Art of Community: Seven Principles for Belonging by Charles Vogl — A guide to building community and rekindling a sense of belonging and connection in society.
- The Participatory Budgeting Project: A Guide for Community Members by Josh Lerner — Offers insights into participatory budgeting, where community members decide how to allocate public funds.
- Citizen: An American Lyric by Claudia Rankine — A powerful exploration of race and identity that encourages readers to engage in the conversations that shape society.
- How to Change Everything: The Young Human's Guide to Protecting the Planet and Each Other by Noah H. Hutton — A youth-driven call to action for civic engagement in environmental issues.
- Fit for Purpose: A Guide to Community Development and Engagement by Kitty McIntosh & Karl Oldfield — Focuses on strategies for effective community development through civic participation.
- Peak Life's Work: Find Your Gift and Give It Away by Said Hasyim — Encourages individuals to discover their personal gifts and apply them towards meaningful, sustainable contributions to society.
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