Citizenship EQ: How is thoughtful and effective civic life characterized?

What is citizenship? The status of being a citizen – a person who enjoys the rights and takes on the responsibilities of belonging to his or her nation

14 th Amendment Defines Citizenship (1868) All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside.

There are two parts to being a citizen … 1. Rights 2. Responsibilities

What are my rights? Natural Rights Political Rights How are these rights protected?

Responsibilities of a U.S. citizen: Obeying the law Paying taxes Jury duty Participating in the political process Performing public service Registering for military duty Being informed about current events Respecting differing opinions

Political Culture A society’s framework of shared values, beliefs, and attitudes concerning politics and government. It is the political environment in which Americans exercise their rights and responsibilities

American’s Shared Political Beliefs Even though Americans often disagree on specific political issues, there are some shared beliefs that most Americans value:  Liberty  Equality  Democracy  Individualism  Justice and Rule of Law  Patriotism  Civic Duty

Ideologies in America What is an ideology? Basic political beliefs What are the two major ideologies in America?

Liberalism An ideology that favors an active role for the government in solving society’s problems. Support government efforts to regulate business and the economy Support policies to reduce economic inequality and to help the poor Favor government regulation of the environment and health care Tend to associate with Democratic Party

Conservatism Ideology that calls for a limited role for government in economic affairs Oppose government regulation of business Generally want to reduce taxes and cut back on government programs More likely to support government action on moral issues (abortion, gay marriage, etc.) Tend to associate with Republican Party

Civic Engagement Citizens can engage in civic life in many ways. When they do so, they help to build a stronger civil society.

Four Categories of Civic Engagement Electoral Specialists Civic Specialists Dual Activists The Disengaged

Electoral Specialists Main engagement is through the electoral process  Vote  Volunteer for political campaigns

Civic Specialists Focus on improving their communities and helping others  Volunteer in the community  Help others  Fundraising

Dual Activists Engage in both electoral and civic activities  vote and volunteer

The Disengaged  People who are not engaged in civic life  Do not vote  Do not pay attention to civic affairs