Who's Afraid of Political Education? is the fourth book in a series I have done with Bristol University Press/Policy Press on the theme of rebuilding democracy. With their support, we have been able to set out why and what kind of reform is needed (Time to Save Democracy), explain how state– citizen cooperation can be strengthened in practice (Whose Government Is It?), and share key lessons on inclusive approaches to secure community-based improvement (Tomorrow's Communities). In this next work, our attention turns to how people can learn to engage effectively as democratic citizens.

It is generally accepted that we should raise people's understanding to help them guard against, for example, being misled as to what would aid or impair their health, or persuaded to part with their money on dubious grounds. Yet when people cannot tell a sound claim about a political matter from a specious one, we are often told to accept that nothing could be done – because politics is contested and hence cannot be taught without bias. But medical and financial issues are contested too, and that has not excluded them from being addressed in education.

Some in politics, like quacks and scammers, have tried to pretend that ‘impartiality’ means there should be no differentiation between the veracity of rival claims, and whatever assertion they make must be given the same respect as any statement backed by actual evidence and expert judgement. In reality, it is vital to be able to judge the validity of what is said about government and public policy. Our wellbeing depends on it. And there is a wealth of knowledge we can draw on to show how citizens can learn, with true impartiality, to become more astute in assessing public claims and choosing options for influencing political outcomes.

In putting together Who's Afraid of Political Education?, I am indebted not only to the contributors to this book – who share with us their impressive expertise in this field – but also the many other researchers, educators and policy practitioners I have learnt so much from over the years. Their respective efforts in advancing civic competence are inspirational. And their collective wisdom on how education can strengthen democracy is indispensable.