This book provides a state-of-the-art assessment of citizen participation practice and research inthe United States. With contributions from a stellar group of scholars, it provides readers anoverview of a field at the heart of democratic governance. Individual chapters trace shifts inparticipation philosophy and policy, examine trends at different government levels, analyzetechnology/participation interactions, identify the participation experiences of minoritypopulations, and explore the impact of voluntary organizations on this topic. A five-chaptersection illustrates innovative cases. Another section explores the role of various methodologiesin advancing participation research.The scope, depth, and timeliness of the coverage fills two voids in the public administrationliterature. First, the book provides a unique collection of articles for graduate courses in citizen participation and democraticgovernance. The volume also offers an excellent compendium for researchers who are at the frontline of participation research andpractice.