Celebrating 50 Years of Boston Review
Lee Drutman’s The Case for More Parties essay was highlighted in a 50 years of Boston Review special.
Civic Engagement
Meet Me at the Library
As central hubs for connection, education, and equity, libraries play an essential role in the civic fabric of American life.
Dollars for Democracy: Financing Citizens’ Assemblies in North America
Despite the demonstrated value of citizens’ assemblies, securing financial resources for them remains one of the biggest hurdles.
A Case for (Responsibly) Expanding Citizen-Led Policymaking in the United States
As we consider bringing ballot initiatives to more U.S. states, what can we learn from the past century of experience with direct democracy?
The big reason why Republicans should worry about an angry Elon Musk
Lee Drutman wrote in Vox about how Musk could exploit the US political system during the November 2026 midterm elections.
15,000 Churches Will Close This Year. Each Could Be a Home for Civic Revival
Hollie Russon Gilman and Ryan Eller wrote for The Chronicle of Philanthropy on how churches could revitalize civic life.
Civic Assemblies in Action: Lessons on Civic Engagement from Fort Collins
In Fort Collins, Colorado, residents are participating in deliberative processes to determine the future of a piece of public land.
Exploring Dandyism and Black Expression: A Roundtable Discussion
From classrooms to red carpets, our Met Gala roundtable dives into Black dandyism as history, resistance, and living curriculum.
Tech Can Help Cities Rebuild Civic Life, If We Let People In
Hollie Russon Gilman and Sarah Jacob wrote for Next City on how digital tools are being experimented with across the country.
4/20 Is More than a Holiday—It’s a Case for Direct Democracy
Maresa Strano and Mark Schmitt remind us that 4/20 isn’t just about cannabis, it shows that when lawmakers stall, voters can lead.