This collection of state-of-the-art essays advances the discussion of civics from noble aspiration to empirical evidence and pedagogical practice. The authors, all noted scholars, have shown us how to improve civic education and—in the process—how to strengthen our democracy. It’s time for policymakers to pay attention.       — William A. Galston, Ezra Zilkha Chair in Governance Studies, The Brookings Institution

Making Civics Count models a brilliant alternative to the ideological polarization and paralysis that dominates civic education discourse. Campbell, Levinson, Hess, and the other contributors to this volume hail from across the political spectrum but share a critical commitment to reinvigorate dialogue around civic education. They seek not consensus but spirited engagement—with ideas, with solid empirical data, and with visions for a more robust democracy. This is an important book for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in civic education’s future.       — Joel Westheimer, university research chair, sociology of education, University of Ottawa

This compelling and persuasive book shows that an open climate for discussion of current issues, teachers’ preparation across subject areas, and the new digital media can help foster a vision of democracy and counter prevailing inequality.       — Judith Torney-Purta, professor of human development, University of Maryland