Civic Engagement and Trust
Community leaders, government officials, and members of the public alike have all grappled with declining levels of public trust in our institutions, and a growing sense of division or ambivalence. Trust scholars assert that engagement in civic affairs increases trust among people. Political scientist Robert Putnam made this argument in his book “Bowling Alone: America’s Declining Social Capital.” Putnam and others maintain that social interactions via engagement in civic affairs breaks down personal or group borders and promotes democratic values and learning.
Continued civic engagement should facilitate and spread the beneficial effects of people working together towards common goals or values and increase a general sense of trust both in other individuals as well as institutions. In contrast, lack of participation in civic activities facilitates isolation and categorical silos and reduces the public’s role in having a say about governance and policy. Lack of civic engagement can thus lead to distrust in institutions, and the work of government. This is particularly the case in situations of real or perceived social conflict or inequity, or when individuals or groups of people are excluded or self-exclude from civic activities.
Engagement Facilitating Trust in Public Institutions
Rather than relying on the public to engage on its own, institutions like the courts can create opportunities and encourage public engagement. Institutions that are perceived as opaque, indifferent, or corrupt, disincentivize people from engaging with that institution, and therefore decrease public trust.
On the other hand, institutions engaging with the public can reduce opacity and show they care. Based on understandings gained from such engagements, institutions can promote practices or values that reflect the values of the people it serves, thereby increasing trust and facilitating further engagement.
Elsewhere, we discussed how trustworthiness can form a basis for trust. In addition, scholars1 find the following elements can provide a foundation for organizations wishing to build trust:
- Vision: Institutions actively demonstrate and maintain a commitment to engagement.
- Fairness: Institutions treat people fairly and equally at all levels.
- Accountability: Institutions are responsive, transparent, and have mechanisms for checks and balances.
Keep in mind that many people believe in the notion of “my voice should matter” and want to contribute to court policies and approaches that impact them. When institutions give people a voice, it is important that the voices have an impact. In order to truly facilitate trust, visible and responsive action is required.
Next: When Public Engagement May Not Build Trust
[1] See for example, Petts, J. (2008). Public engagement to build trust: false hopes?. Journal of Risk Research, 11(6), 821-835; Wynne, B. (2006). Public engagement as a means of restoring public trust in science–hitting the notes, but missing the music?. Public Health Genomics, 9(3), 211-220; Besley, J. C. (2010). Public engagement and the impact of fairness perceptions on decision favorability and acceptance. Science Communication, 32(2), 256-280.