Politics Is about Relationship: A Blueprint for the Citizens’ Century

by Harold H. Saunders

In this straightforward exploration of core problems facing humanity, Harold Saunders outlines how concerned citizens can bring about social and political change. Using examples from the U.S. to South Africa, Tajikistan to China, this book is full of real stories of how building 'relationship' among people can empower citizens outside government.

325 pages, Hardcover

First published December 23, 2005

Reviews

[Myha Hill · Rating 3 out of 5]

Saunders' idea of citizens’ ability to “concert” as a kind of social capital built through everyday reciprocity reminded me of a documentary I watched on the 1995 Chicago Heatwave. Those who died most often were those who were socially isolated (i.e. elderly men), while people in connected, close-knit communities where neighbors checked in on each other and responded collectively were much more likely to survive.

This book made me think about how building strong social ties is actually a form of prevention, not just in health, but in conflict.