Talking Local Politics with Humor & Insight

The Civic Evolutionary Chart was developed by two Civic Scientists, who never claimed to be Nuclear Engineers.  By Civic Scientists, we mean Chuck and Jim. The Civic Evolutionary Chart  is a humorous look at how people participate in their community—and how that participation can evolve.

At the bottom is the Troll, whose civic involvement often begins and ends with provoking people online. From there comes the Keyboard Warrior, armed with a Wi-Fi connection, strong opinions, and an unexplained fear of public microphones. Next is the Karen, who has graduated from complaining online to demanding that somebody—preferably a manager—do something about it. Then comes the Pitchfork Person, who is willing to show up and get involved, but occasionally arrives carrying outrage before facts.

At the top is the Concerned Citizen.

A Concerned Citizen doesn't have to agree with everyone. In fact, disagreement is an important part of a healthy community. The difference is how they disagree. They ask questions. They check facts. They listen. They show up. They vote. They challenge elected officials when necessary, but they're also willing to challenge their own assumptions.

That's why every citizen should want to evolve.

The goal isn't to become less passionate. It's to become more effective. Outrage might get you likes, comments, and attention, but informed civic engagement can actually change a community.

And here's the most important part of the chart: none of these classifications are permanent.

We've probably all been a Keyboard Warrior, Karen, Pitchfork Person—or maybe even a Troll—at some point. Civic evolution begins when we're willing to recognize it, laugh at ourselves, learn something, and do better.

Because communities aren't improved by the loudest citizens.

They're improved by concerned ones