Political Tutelage in Rural Singapore: The Measurement and Analysis of the Cognitive Political Culture of some Chinese Farmers

Abstract

Singapore is a new state without a long tradition of independent, democratic politics. The current political leadership is dedicated towards institutionalizing a political system which is both democratic and effective. Attainment of this goal will depend to a significant extent on the creation of citizens who are politically aware, who feel competent to participate in politics and who will participate through legitimate political channels to promote and protect their interests. In terms of contemporary political theory one of Singapore's immediate problems is the creation of a cognitive political culture which is congruent with a democratic and effective political structure. This article focuses on the content, creation and consequences of political awareness amongst farmers in rural Singapore.