Politics in daily life

What do we mean by politics?

Politics is how people make, preserve and amend the general rules under which they live. It is social; it is about working with others. This may involve diversity and conflict but also a willingness to co-operate and act collectively. Politics can be seen as a search for conflict resolution and not simply its achievement, as not all conflicts are, or can be, resolved.

What is political literacy?

The people we elect to local councils, the Scottish Parliament, the UK Parliament and the European Parliament make decisions that affect almost every aspect of our daily lives. These include decisions from what happens in our schools and workplaces and what recreational facilities we have, to national issues, like health and education, and global issues like defence and the environment. It matters to each and every one of us who represents us at local, national and international level; they reflect our values and principles.

Political literacy is all about understanding how politics shapes our everyday lives.

It is also about having the motivation, skills and knowledge to be effectively involved in the decision-making process ourselves.

...the possession of the skills, knowledge and understanding that enable someone to take an interest and become involved in political events, institutions, problems and ideas.
QCDA Citizenship Glossary

Political literacy is about:

  • exploring a series of concepts and processes around justice, democracy, the exercise of power, rights and responsibilities
  • building people's knowledge, skills and conviction to have an effective role in public and political life
  • encouraging people to be actively involved in changing their communities for the better.

Activities