8. Individual engagement

Snapshot: Young people—are they politically active or apathetic?
Political behaviour—Individual engagement and Australian political culture—Political participation

1. Consider the idea of political socialisation. What are some of the ways in which this occurs on an individual level?

2. What are the three types of orientations towards politics, according to Almond & Verba? How do they interact with one another?

3. How accurate is the notion that young people are apolitical and apathetic? Consider unconventional or alternative ways in which young people may be participating in the political process.

4. Discuss some of the ways in which individuals can participate in the political process. What are some of the most effective? What is your opinion on the effectiveness of consumer boycotts?

5.  What is ‘social capital’? Why is it important for political engagement and participation?

6. What role do you think opinion polls play in the democratic process, if any? Are they a possible tool of influence for voters?

7. Can volunteering be a part of the political process? Discuss some examples and how effective they might be.

Resources

Newspoll Market Research

Quentin Beresford, Governments, Markets & Globalisation pp94-102
Read an extract (PDF)

Volunteering Australia