Publisher's Synopsis
Even while democracy triumphs around the world, there is a growing distrust of governments and a suspicion of politicians. Social capital is in decline, citizens want to be less involved and to pay fewer taxes, but they still want governments to meet their needs and solve many of society's problems.
What implications do these often contradictory aspirations have for the process of governance in Australia?
Are you being served? seeks to answer this question. It begins by examining the attitude of citizens to government, and looks at the different ways that citizens now organise: into social movements rather than political parties. It then explains the consequences of these changes, and asks whether consultation is the answer to developing trust and consent. The conclusion draws the lessons together, suggesting that in part the problems are caused by a difference in perception. Nevertheless, governments will need a number of solutions and strategies if the problems of governance in contemporary Australia are to be solved.
