Public Affairs and the Civil Engineer: A Guideline for Accomplishment

For a democracy to work to its highest and best purpose all persons in the democracy must participate in the governmental functions. To have less than full participation by all citizens, a government moves from a democratic society toward other less desirable forms of government, such as socialism, dictatorships, totalitarianism, or a monarchy. Public participation is more than going to the polls and casting a vote. It requires a commitment for everyone to share in the democratic process. Now, more than any other time in history, our participation is required for democracy to bring about the best and greatest utilization of human and physical resources. Within the disciplines of every civil engineer lies a talent that could, and should, be put to work in every community, either at the local, state, or Federal level.