Citizens' Rights and Responsibilities
Throughout the lessons of this course, the rights of US citizens have been defined in the study of the Constitution. What are some of the responsibilities that result from these rights?
First, it is essential to understand that the majority rules within the concept of democracy. However, the fact that the majority rules does not and should not completely disregard the rights of the minority. Compromise is often necessary to settle an issue; however, core principles must not be compromised.
The foundation of a democratic republic is the ability of the individual to enjoy freedom. However, individuals must participate in the civic process to fully enjoy that freedom. A nation's people must exercise good citizenship in order for the nation to prosper and for the people to keep their freedom. Characteristics of good citizenship include the following:
Responsibility and Accountability
Citizens need to take responsibility for their actions and also be accountable. This is not just a requirement for being a good citizen; it's also something God has called us to do. Proverbs 28:13 says, "Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy." (ESV®)
Integrity
Good citizens are trustworthy and honest. Having integrity means being honest about the little things, and this is just as important as being honest about the big things. Luke 16:10 says, "One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much."
Patriotism
Being patriotic means being devoted to and supporting your country. Citizens can show patriotism by learning their nation's history, flying their nation's flag, or learning their nation's national anthem. Be sure not to confuse patriotism with nationalism, however. Nationalism means thinking that your nation is superior and has a right to dominate other nations, whereas patriotism is a love of your nation that doesn't preclude others from loving their nations.
Courtesy and Respect
Showing courtesy and respect to others is another important part of being a good citizen. Even if we are in the majority, we must respect the rights of the minority. As Romans 12:10 says, "Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor."
Respect for the Law
Laws are essential to keeping society orderly. These laws help protect our rights, and we have the same responsibility to respect these laws as everyone else.
Financial Responsibility
Being a responsible citizen also requires being responsible with your finances. Avoid getting into a large amount of debt, don't make frivolous purchases, and donate extra money to help those who are in need.
Self-Reliance
Don't rely on the government to provide for you. When citizens become dependent on the government to provide for them, they cease to have power over that government. It increases corruption and threatens liberty. On the other hand, self-reliance builds character, makes us accountable for our actions, and breaks the cycle of dependence on the government.
Participation in Civic Life
The above list describes the various qualities someone needs in order to be a good citizen. But having these qualities isn't the only thing needed to exercise effective citizenship. Good citizens also need to participate in civic life.
There are several ways to participate. Citizens must first be informed about important issues regarding the various politicians and their platforms. The next step of participation is to vote in local, state, and national elections. Citizens should vote for the candidates that possess the characteristics they value. Trustworthiness, responsibility, and honesty are valuable characteristics of political leaders. Often, in the midst of political debate, inaccurate statements are made and words are misconstrued. Citizens must remember to respect those that have a different opinion, while also maintaining their right to voice their own opinion and vote accordingly. When citizens participate in the political process today, much of the pre-election debate takes place via the media. Participation in public debate on any type of media should be responsible and respectful.
Another responsibility of civic life is serving on a jury. Every citizen over eighteen years of age may be called upon to serve on a jury. Jury duty might not be the most exciting and fun thing in the world, but it's vital to making sure everyone in the nation receives a fair trial.
Obeying the law is another simple way to perform your civic duty. This includes paying taxes. These taxes fund the goods and services provided by the government, such as public roads and schools. Paying taxes is a way to practice personal and fiscal responsibility.
Another way to participate in civic processes is to perform a public service to benefit the community. Volunteering is a great way to assist others in the community, including the homeless, senior citizens, or veterans.
The first section of the Fourteenth Amendment states that a United States citizen is someone who is born in the United States or naturalized. A state cannot take away a person's property or freedom without due process of law, and each state must provide equal protection under the law. The Founding Fathers were adamant about the worth and dignity of every individual. If you were born in the United States, you are a natural-born citizen. If you were not born in the United States, you would need to complete the naturalization process in order to become a citizen. Either way, all citizens are an important part of the country. To keep the nation strong, everyone must cultivate the qualities of good citizenship and fully participate in civic life.
Jury box
The bottom line that must never be forgotten is that in American government, the foundational statement is "We the People." This statement of solidarity represents the groundwork of the United States government and highlights the value and influence of the citizens that comprise the nation.