This book is composed out of two parts. In the first one,
citizens’ participation is discussed in the light of most interesting social
theories by author’s choice. Therefore this part represents aninterdisciplinary background overview. As such, it is unavoidably focused on a
reduced list of theoretical approaches. Carpetier analyzes participation in
frameworks of: spatial planning, social development, arts and museums and
communication.
There is no explanation why these and not others – such as
economic, social care, education…contexts aren’t revisited. However, it is true
that going further the author could have extended the book endlessly. On the
other hand, the impression is that this theoretical overview is adapted to the
choice of case studies presented in the second part of the book. It brings toreaders a serial of case studies describing concrete peoples’ attempts toengage in participation. The author treats participation as a structurally
unstable concept which, in order to be obtained, demands everyday ideological
and political struggle. For, citizens’ participation is the normative token in
all models of democracies. But, it is by no means warranted that participation
will be exercised in democratic practices.
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