This document discusses political participation and trends in democracies. It notes that while voting is crucial, there are also unconventional forms of participation like protests. Recent trends show declines in voting and trust in political institutions. However, this civic malaise may not signify that democracies are in crisis. Democracies are adapting to changing interests and ways citizens get informed and participate, through new forms like interest groups and media. Overall, democracies may be revitalizing rather than declining.