Brian Adams, world-renowned political science professor and author, has accepted our invitation to speak at our November 15th general meeting.
He plans to discuss the results of the upcoming November election and how the next two years will play out in federal, state and local levels. Professor Adams’ research specifically explores why local governments do not live up to their democratic potential.
He states, “As small jurisdictions, localities should be closer to the people, allowing for more extensive citizen participation and greater accountability. Yet participation in local government is dismally low, and local officials are often unresponsive to citizen demands.”
Brian’s 2007 book, Citizen Lobbyists: Local Efforts to Influence Public Policy was his first book, and his second book was Campaign Finance in Local Elections: Buying the Grassroots. His current research project explores how citizens discuss policy issues.
We hope we will have record turnout so we can collectively understand all of the dynamics and implications of the November election – regardless of the outcome.
When
Coffee and refreshments will be served at 10:30 AM
The meeting will begin promptly at 11:00 AM
Where
Winn Room of the Coronado Library
Brian E. Adams is Assistant Professor in the Political Science Department at San Diego State University.
Currently, Brian is working on a research project exploring how citizens discuss policy issues. When citizens talk about issues such as health care or immigration, do they offer evidence and reasoned arguments to support their conclusions, or do they simply state their opinions without providing any support? Do they engage in constructive dialogue that works through opposing viewpoints, or are they unable to deal with disagreement? Answering these questions is important because it highlights whether citizen deliberation—often promoted as a way to improve the health of American democracy—will create the desired benefits.
