Answer Question
4 actions to support a sustainable democracy: No heroism required
In The Conversation Canada, UBC Psychology Professor Emeritus Dr. Wolfgang Linden draws on psychological research to suggest four simple, human-centered actions to support democracy—no heroism required. From celebrating voting to bridging divides, he shows how everyday habits can strengthen civic engagement.
As a researcher in psychology, I discovered (as have others) that the basic principles driving human behaviour are remarkably similar across a wide range of domains. They include child development, social psychology, psychotherapy and also politics. Now, as an emeritus professor, I am applying this knowledge to the wider-reaching application of ways to strengthen democracy. Using research-based and realistic views of the degree of control we have over politics, I propose four actions for individuals in support of strengthening democracy.
As a researcher in psychology, I discovered (as have others) that the basic principles driving human behaviour are remarkably similar across a wide range of domains. They include child development, social psychology, psychotherapy and also politics. Now, as an emeritus professor, I am applying this knowledge to the wider-reaching application of ways to strengthen democracy. Using research-based and realistic views of the degree of control we have over politics, I propose four actions for individuals in support of strengthening democracy.