A generation ago, the scholar-activist Milton Kotler blazed a new trail towards authentic grassroots democracy. Today, as theorists urge more deliberation and community reformers seek new arenas for civic participation, Kotler's recommendations are more relevant than ever. This new edition of Neighborhood Government should refocus attention on the ways that restructured local institutions can empower citizens.
- William A. Galston,
In an America split between people enjoying the serenity of gated enclaves, condominiums, and prosperous suburbs, and people struggling with debts, job uncertainty, and the powerlessness of most small communities, Kotler forcefully reminds us of the potential for grass roots resurgence that can enable citizens of distressed communities to level the field and remake their own living places. This book comes to us in a period of general crisis, with families and small communities made frustrated and helpless by social, economic, and political threats, both foreign and domestic. It supplies new evidence of the possibility for citizens to provoke changes in many of the nations 60,000 place communities. Recent research and experience with colleagues supports Kotler's worldview and model. In this time of civic confusion, it is heartening to have the sobering, demanding voice of Milton Kotler providing renewed and expanded ideas as to how the small communities of America can themselves take on the tasks ofachieving homeland security infused with liberty and fairness.
- James V. Cunningham, Emeritus Professor of Community Organization, University of Pittsburgh and Co-Author of Organizing for Community Controlled Deve,
In an America split between people enjoying the serenity of gated enclaves, condominiums, and prosperous suburbs, and people struggling with debts, job uncertainty, and the powerlessness of most small communities, Kotler forcefully reminds us of the potential for grass roots resurgence that can enable citizens of distressed communities to level the field and remake their own living places. This book comes to us in a period of general crisis, with families and small communities made frustrated and helpless by social, economic, and political threats, both foreign and domestic. It supplies new evidence of the possibility for citizens to provoke changes in many of the nations 60,000 place communities. Recent research and experience with colleagues supports Kotler's worldview and model. In this time of civic confusion, it is heartening to have the sobering, demanding voice of Milton Kotler providing renewed and expanded ideas as to how the small communities of America can themselves take on the tasks of achieving homeland security infused with liberty and fairness.
- James V. Cunningham, Emeritus Professor of Community Organization, University of Pittsburgh and Co-Author of <I>Organizing for Community Controlled D,