The Obligation Mosaic: Race and Social Norms in Us Political Participation

Many argue that "civic duty" explains why Americans engage in politics, but what does civic duty mean, and does it mean the same thing across communities? Why are people from marginalized social groups often more likely than their more privileged counterparts to participate in high-cost political activities?

In The Obligation Mosaic, Allison P. Anoll shows that the obligations that bring people into the political world--or encourage them to stay away--vary systematically by race in the United States, with broad consequences for representation. Drawing on a rich mix of interviews, surveys, and experiments with Asian, Black, Latino, and White Americans, the book uncovers two common norms that centrally define concepts of obligation: honoring ancestors and helping those in need. Whether these norms lead different groups to politics depends on distinct racial histories and continued patterns of segregation.

Anoll's findings not only help to explain patterns of participation but also provide a window into opportunities for change, suggesting how activists and parties might better mobilize marginalized citizens.

Author: Allison P. Anoll
Publisher: University of Chicago Press
Published: 01/21/2022
Pages: 272
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.79lbs
Size: 9.00h x 6.00w x 0.56d
ISBN13: 9780226812571
ISBN10: 022681257X
BISAC Categories:
- Political Science | Civics & Citizenship
- Political Science | Political Process | Campaigns & Elections
- Social Science | Ethnic Studies | American | African American & Black Studies

About the Author
Allison P. Anoll is assistant professor of political science at Vanderbilt University.