California in the new millennium : the changing social and political landscape

What will California look like by the middle of the 21st century?

Change is occurring in the state at a breathtaking pace.

The explosive population growth of the last 20 years of the 20th century is expected to continue, fuelled largely by immigration.

By mid-century Latinos will become the state's dominant ethnic group.

As the ethnic balance of power shifts, so will the regional balance of power - away from the urban coastal areas and toward the rapidly growing regions of the Central Valley, Orange County, and the Inland Empire.

The state will face many challenges. Yet at the end of the 20th century, most Californians believe that their elected officials are unable to develop effective public policies.Mark Baldassare examines the powerful undercurrents - economic, demographic, and political - shaping California at this critical juncture in its history.

He focuses on three trends that are profoundly affecting the social and political landscape of the state: political distrust, racial and ethnic change, and regional diversity.

These trends will make it increasingly difficult to achieve consensus on major public policy issues involving California's future.Baldassare discusses the complexities of this situation and offers a series of substantive recommendations for how California can come to terms with the challenges it faces.