Education and political participation revisited

Abstract

This chapter revisits the longstanding question of the relationship between education and political participation. It critically examines three dominant theoretical models: the absolute education model; the pre-adult socialization model; and the relative education model. The absolute education model posits that education directly enhances political engagement through increased civic skills and knowledge. In contrast, the pre-adult socialization model argues that factors preceding education, such as family background and cognitive abilities, are the primary drivers of political behaviour, with education serving merely as a proxy. The relative education model suggests that education's impact is mediated through social status and network effects, where the value of education is contingent upon the educational attainment of others in society. The chapter synthesizes empirical findings and methodological advancements.