Experts

Revitalizing Government

Now, as much as ever in the history of the United States, we need public systems and structures that can meet the growing challenges of our nation. And, we need public support for the vital role of government in addressing these monumental tasks.

While we are hopeful that we are witnessing the beginning of a change in how we use government together, we must recognize that disconnection and disaffection have been dominant attitudes towards government for decades and persist just below the surface among many Americans. Research conducted for Public Works: the Demos Center for the Public Sector shows Americans have a strong distaste for partisanship and political self-interest, and they misunderstand and distrust government institutions. Finding solutions to the challenges we face will require Americans to gain a more productive understanding of government and a new sense of engagement and common purpose.

Leaders and policymakers who seek public support for public sector solutions need a new approach that does not focus solely on policy and partisan "wins." Instead, we need one that contributes constructively to a new public understanding of the purpose and possibilities of government action--an approach that emphasizes problem-solving, long-term thinking, and a genuine concern for the common good.

Public Works: the Demos Center for the Public Sector has developed just such an approach. Through trainings and consultations, Demos is working to motivate organizations, elected officials and community leaders across the country to consciously engage in activities that will support the role of government in achieving the critical balance between the public good and private interests. Along with several Demos fellows, Public Works is striving to revitalize a sense of the importance of public purposes and a conception of citizenship that calls Americans to see themselves as stewards of our common good.