The third broad tradition of democratic theory in public work are theories and strategies through which ordinary people gain power in a world of large institutions, scientific rationality, and the marketplace. American history is rich with such theorizing about power, and concepts of democracy that stress the civic skills, habits, and institutions of civic muscle through which people impact larger arenas of economic life and politics. Public work tied to organizing for institutional change holds possibilities for renewing civic muscle in mediating institutions. All these and more form part of the mix. The mix is always evolving.
Public work is a site for continuing conceptual work.
Moreover, we believe it speaks to central questions and challenges of our time. It puts many jobs and the core purposes of many institutions on the civic map. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. The Clearinghouse welcomes diverse points of view. While we strive to maintain a high level of quality, research based information, the opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the position of the Consortium or the University of Minnesota, nor does the Consortium or the University recommend, endorse, verify or confirm information submitted.