American government

American Government

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While voting is the most common form of political participation in the United States , it is not the only one . Discuss the other form of participation that exists . Which has the greatest influence and why

Political participation can be defined as the active participation by a group of individuals in the functions and operations of government This involves opposition and participation in decision-making . Voting is the most common form of political participation during elections There are other forms of political participation such as joining a

campaign for a political party , participating in a rally or other peaceful demonstration and signing petitions for a cause . The refusal to pay taxes or civil disobedience and engaging in a violent protest are illegal forms of political participation

Citizens of a democratic country engage in political participation because they are more knowledgeable and critical of the government that leads them (Thompson et . al , 143 . The people may perceive the government as ineffective thus the declining trust . During elections the turnout rates are not as high as previous elections . Due to the dissatisfaction of the people , they engage more in unconventional forms of political participation . Participation in conventional politics involves the regular and institutional types of action like seeking membership in a political party or an interest group . A democratic state relies on the strength of the civil society . The citizens are able to express their opinion to the government officials

Contentious politics involves participation in rallies , marches and revolutions . These...