Participation and Power: Civic Discourse in Environmental Policy Decisions (Suny Series, Studies in Scientific and Technical Communication)

By Michele W. Simmons

Book Overview

Takes a firsthand look at a case of public participation in environmental policy.

Participation and Power examines the ways in which citizens are allowed to participate in environmental policy decision making. Despite requirements that mandate public participation, institutional practices and current models of public participation often exclude citizens from anything other than a superficial role. W. Michele Simmons offers a firsthand look at risk communication and public participation practices through a case study involving the disposal of VX nerve agent. Arguing that a rhetoric for civic discourse in policy debates is needed, she constructs a theory of democratic and ethical public involvement that grants citizens more power in the decision-making process.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0791469956
• ISBN13: 9780791469958
• Release Date: February 2007
• Publisher: State University of New York Press
• Length: 214 Pages
• Weight: 0.95 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.4" x 9.1"
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher