Chapter 1 Section 1: Civics in Our Lives

What is Civics and why do we study it?: Civics is the study of citizenship and what it means to be a citizen ( a legally recognized member of a country). Citizens have rights and responsibilities that differ from country to country. Most countries require their citizens to pay taxes, and some (such as Israel) require all citizens to serve in the military. It depends on the country’s type of government (the organizations, institutions, and individuals who have political authority over a group of people).

Being an American Citizen: Being a U.S. citizen means more than just enjoying the rights that the American system provides. This includes being a productive and active member of society. You are a citizen of your local communities (towns, counties, etc.) as well as a citizen of your country and your state. Firstly, you need to know the purpose of government, how it functions, what the difference between state and national governments are, how the economic system works, how all these systems interact, and how to make things better.

American Values: Our country has been an inspiration to other nations because of our basic values of equality, liberty, and justice for all people. They are the foundation for many of our rights in this country, which are protected by the U.S. Constitution and our laws. Equality: Ideally, it means that all people are equal under the law. Everyone gets the same rights, nobody’s liberty is more important than any others. Liberty: In our country we have the freedom to start our own businesses, speak or write what we believe, practice any religion we want, travel wherever we want. Justice: Police are meant to protect our rights, and the courts have the power to punish those who violate our rights. As long as you follow the laws, you retain your rights and freedoms.

Qualities of a good citizen: It’s important for citizens to take their civic duties seriously, this means voting, and expressing their opinions to their representatives, and more. Voting is absolutely one of the most important things a citizen can do. People elect leaders that represent their views, and if these officials don’t follow through they can be voted out of office. Here are ten characteristics of a good citizens. 1. Are responsible family members 2. Respect and obey the law. 3. Respect the rights and property of others. 4. Are loyal and proud of their country. 5. Take part in an improve life in their communities. 6. Take an active part in their government. 7. Use natural resources wisely. 8. Are informed on key issues and willing to take a stand on these issues. 9. Believe in equal opportunity for all people. 10. Respect individual differences, points of view, and ways of life different to their own.