ABSTRACT
A narrative of civic apathy and political disengagement has become increasingly prevalent in the UK, amongst other liberal democracies. Phenomena such as low electoral turnout, declining party membership, mistrust in government and contempt for politicians, have been cited as indicators of a crisis of participation, particularly marked amongst younger people who appear sceptical towards the formal institutions and processes of politics (Stoker 2006; Pattie et al. 2004). A sense of disconnection between political leaders and younger citizens is a particular symptom of this crisis.
