Designed as an antidote for civic apathy and disillusionment, this guide takes the reader through the process of successful political action for change - from the germ of an idea to finding allies, getting the word out and building support to effect the desired result.

1: Change Is in the Air; 2: The Anatomy of an Issue Campaign; 3: Issues and Interest Groups; 4: Targets of Opportunity: Issue Arenas; 5: Understanding and Influencing Public Opinion; 6: Information and Persuasion; 7: Media Advocacy; 8: Finding Strength in Numbers: Building and Managing Coalitions; 9: Persuading Decision Makers; 10: Grassroots Mobilization; 11: Issue Advocacy and the Internet; 12: Initiatives and Referenda: The Public Takes Charge; 13: Putting It All Together: Guns in America; 14: Issues and Advocacy Strategies for the Twenty-First Century