Ordinary people, community leaders, and even organizations and corporations still do not fully comprehend the interconnected, “big picture” dynamics of sustainability theory and action. In exploring means to become more sustainable, individuals and groups need a reference in which to frame discussions so they will be relevant, educational, and successful when implemented. This book puts ideas on sustainable communities into a conceptual framework that will promote striking, transformational effects on decision-making. In this book practitioners and community leaders will find effective, comprehensive tools and resources at their finger-tips to facilitate sustainable community development (SCD). The book content examines a diverse range of SCD methods; assessing community needs and resources; creating community visions; promoting stakeholder interest and participation; analyzing community problems; designing and facilitating strategic planning; carrying out interventions to improve

This book provides a clear and comprehensive introduction to the developments which have brought about a new, global wave of inclusiveness and democracy. From Brazil to Bangladesh, a new form of participatory politics is springing up. Featuring contributions detailing how such movements have worked in Latin America, Europe and Africa, the book analyzes the impact they have had on the democratic process. By opening up the political sphere in this way, the authors contend, these grassroots movements truly have created "spaces for change."

Although community participation is one of the most popular themes in development studies today, many of the complex and controversial issues attending the concept have not been properly debated. A major concern is the role of the state in community participation. While some believe that the state should encourage and sponsor community participation, others reject state involvement on the ground that it dilutes participatory ideals. This is the first book to examine in detail the question of the role of the state in community participation. It asks whether state involvement is beneficial or harmful to community participation and whether community and state resources can be harmonized to promote social development. In addition to its central theme, this book traces the history of community participation ideas and provides a detailed exposition of the theory and practice of the subject. It is essential reading for all students of development studies, public administration, sociology, social work and social administration interested in Third World issues.

First Published in 2000. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.