A presidential campaign often seems like a great opportunity to renew people's interest in the democratic process. Yet the empty posturing and combative tone of the presidential campaign are among the very things that have alienated large numbers of American citizens from government and from public life in general. Instead of focusing exclusively on the presidential campaign and national issue debates, many civic activists are creating community-wide study circle programs to help citizens reconnect to public life at the local level. These programs create an opportunity for ordinary people to make a direct impact on public problems and political decision-making, which is one of the essential elements of democratic citizenship. By helping people first become active participants of their neighborhoods and communities, these programs lay the foundations for democracy on a national scale.
Study circles are small-group, democratic, highly participatory discussions.
Organizers of large-scale study circle programs bring hundreds or even thousands of citizens into study circles to address issues such as education, race relations, and crime and violence. Community-wide study circle programs are underway in 19 cities, ranging in size from Orford, New Hampshire to Los Angeles. Study circles are grounded historically in the U.S. town meeting tradition and in the study groups of the Chautauqua era at the turn of the century. Through the discussions, citizens gain deeper understanding of others' perspectives and concerns. They discover common ground and a greater desire and ability to work together- as individuals, as members of small groups, and as voters and members of large organizations in the community.