Lexington Books The Psychology of Global Citizenship: A Review of Theory and Research

In The Psychology of Global Citizenship: A Review of Theory and Research, Stephen Reysen and Iva Katzarska-Miller provide a theoretical and empirical overview of global citizenship and related concepts. The authors highlight core components shared by a variety of disciplines and cultures and linked to pro-social values, such as the promotion of empathy, diversity, environmental sustainability, and intergroup helping. Utilizing a social psychological perspective, Reysen and Katzarska-Miller provide an integrated approach to global citizenship identification with their model of antecedents (global awareness and normative environment) and outcomes (six clusters of pro-social values). Review Reysen and Katzarska-Miller provide a comprehensive review of studies in global psychology. The term global citizen only emerged in the last 20 years, and the authors have curated research on the origins of the concept, as well as definitions and surveys worldwide of teachers, students, refugees, and others. The theory of global citizenship can be described as political (belief in states and common values of governance), moral (universal human rights and commitment to action), cultural (similar and different symbols across cultures), and economic (international development). The authors clarify the current use of the terms nationalism and globalism in the US political context, though they note that references to the concepts go as far back as Socrates. Subsequent chapters are devoted to the concept of global citizenship as applied in education and in business, specifically international corporations. Finally the authors consider the future of this concept, as it is viewed positively and negatively by individual groups, politicians, and countries. This volume offers an important clarification and summary of the concept to date and suggests areas for further research of a topic that will continue to garner popular and academic attention. Summing Up: Recommended. Undergraduates through faculty and professionals.-- "Choice"Reysen and Katzarska-Miller capture in this volume the essence of the emerging superordinate identity of global citizenship, and articulate the conceptual and empirical challenge it entails. They expertly and clearly integrate in a theoretical framework the growing literature on the subject from various disciplinary perspectives such as psychology, business, education, and political science. This volume is a timely and groundbreaking work for a world trying to deal with challenges of increasing globalization and interdependence. It will spur further research and refinement of theory with practical implications in areas such a sustainable behavior, economics, marketing, social responsibility, identity development and politics. Must read for current and aspiring social and behavior scientists around the globe.--Aghop Der-Karabetian, University of La Verne About the Author Iva Katzarska-Miller is associate professor of psychology at Transylvania University. Stephen Reysen is associate professor of psychology at Texas A&M University-Commerce.