Overview
Why do so many young people intend to vote, but not cast a ballot?
In 2016, 90% of young Americans reported an interest in politics and 80% intended to vote. Yet only 43% of people between the ages of 18 and 29 actually cast a ballot. Making Young Voters investigates what lies at the core of this gap.
The book argues that political apathy is not the main reason for low youth turnout. Instead, young people too often fail to follow through on their political interests and intentions because of internal and external barriers to participation.
Drawing on psychology, economics, child development, education, and political science, the book examines civic education and electoral reform as possible solutions.