Across the world democracies are suffering from a disconnect between the people and political
elites. In communities where jobs and industry are scarce many feel the government is
incapable of understanding their needs or addressing their problems. The resulting frustration
has fueled the success of destabilizing demagogues. To reverse this pattern and restore
responsible government we need to reinvigorate democracy at the local level. But what does
that mean? Drawing on examples of successful community building in cities large and small from
a shrinking village in rural Austria to a neglected section of San Diego Reconstructing
Democracy makes a powerful case for re-engaging citizens. It highlights innovative grassroots
projects and shows how local activists can form alliances and discover their own power to solve
problems.
