Political Activists in America: The Identity Construction Model of Political Participation - Rilegato

Teske, Nathan

Rilegato

ISBN 10: 0521581141 ISBN 13: 9780521581141

Casa editrice: Cambridge University Press, 1997

Riassunto

Through vivid portrayals of political activists, this book offers a fresh analysis of why people become involved in politics. Based on interviews with environmental, social justice and pro-life activists, the book argues, contrary to both popular opinion and the main approaches of political science, that active involvement in politics can be deeply fulfilling. The identity construction approach is the core of the book's argument and shows how activists value political involvement for themselves. The book argues against approaches that see politics as an inherently costly or unpleasant activity. In contrast, the identity construction approach sees political activism as enabling activists to become somebody whom they would otherwise have been unable to become. The construction of identity among activists is both moral and about what one wants for oneself, and hence illustrates shortcomings in approaches that divide motivations into either the 'self-interested'or the 'altruistic'.

Su questo libro

Recensione:

"In Political Activists in America, Nathan Teske, an assistant professor of political science at the University of Miami, has done an admirable job of arguing in support of merging a moral sense and purpose in life with politics. Teske's book makes a useful contribution to the literature on political activism." Mack C. Shelley II, Perspectives on Political Science

"...combination of accessible writing, strong theoretical framing of a smart research question, comparative research design, and rich empirical data mined insightfully makes for a strong sociological argument and an engaging read. Teske has written a fine book appropriate for advanced undergraduates and graduate students of political sociology, political culture, and social movements. And we specialists--of positivist and reflexive persuasions alike--will do better work for having read is closely." Richard L. Wood, American Journal of Sociology

"Students of political participation on the individual and group level may find this book a useful addition to the scholarly literature." Kathy B. Smith, Rhetoric & Public Affairs

Descrizione del libro:

Based on interviews with environmental, social justice and pro-life activists, the book argues that active involvement in politics can be deeply fulfilling. This argument is developed through the 'identity construction' approach to political participation. Political involvement enables activists to become someone they might never have become.

Su questa edizione

• Editore: Cambridge University Press
• Data di pubblicazione: 1997
• ISBN 10: 0521581141
• ISBN 13: 9780521581141
• Rilegatura: Copertina rigida
• Numero di pagine: 192