Tracing the Democratic Narrative: Big Society, Localism and Civic Engagement

This paper engages with recent policy changes in the UK surrounding the government's Big Society and localism agenda. Examining the framework and condition through which these programmes are developing in England, the article traces the conceptual democratic narrative and considers the implications and challenges for local government, the third sector and planning. Following this review, the author links emerging critiques and suggests a broad research agenda through which to reflect on changes in democratic policy and the shifting relationships between the state and civil society. © 2013 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC