Professor Theda Skocpol’s current research focuses on civic engagement in American democracy, specifically the study of changing patterns of participation in voluntary associations and the changing types of associations and civic institutions available in America today.

For example, asks Professor Skocpol, in the wake of the horrors of September 11, 2001, and the current war on terror, what will happen to American civic democracy? Some have observed a silver lining in the wake of 9/11, suggesting that Americans who have been preoccupied with the "me" are suddenly thinking about the "we" (as a nation). And a number of developments after 9/11 gave some support to the view that perhaps we were in a moment of civic revitalization.

For example, an October 2001 poll showed that:

• 58% of Americans reported donating money in response to the September 11 tragedies
• 13% reported giving blood.
• 11% reported volunteering time

Furthermore, formerly anonymous suburbs worked together to provide continual support to the bereaved. A number of Americans started flying flags on their homes and cars, and displaying them on their clothing.

All of this raises questions about whether some very old patterns in American democracy are repeating themselves in the current crisis. Historically, major U.S. wars have provided a great stimulus for civic engagement in America. For example:

• The American Revolution gave rise to the "nation of joiners," as all kinds of voluntary organizations sprouted in communities across the new nation.
• The Civil War was fought in part by voluntary efforts, and hundreds of membership associations flourished afterwards.
• Hundreds of membership associations also flourished during and after World War I and World War II.