American Citizenship: How to Restore Self-Respect and Confidence

Editor’s note: Following the release of “America’s Crisis of Self-Doubt,” National Review’s statement of affirming belief in America’s principles against growing doubts about them, on both left and right, National Review has invited signatories to the statement to elaborate on their own faith in America. You can find another entry here.

The Florida Department of Education recently inquired what are the expectations of an upright and desirable citizenry. It sought contributions about the teaching of the Founding principles in the United States, foundations of civic virtue and self-government, respect for civil and military authorities, appreciation for the Constitution and the rule of law, and respect for exertions of prior generations to “secure the blessings of liberty.” In all this, it aimed to erect in-service training for public-school teachers.

WB

About the Author

William B. Allen

William B. Allen is emeritus dean and professor of political philosophy at Michigan State University.

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Declaration of Independence

Editor’s note: Following the release of “America’s Crisis of Self-Doubt,” National Review’s statement of affirming belief in America’s principles against growing doubts about them, on both left and right, National Review has invited signatories to the statement to elaborate on their own faith in America. You can find another entry here.

The Florida Department of Education recently inquired what are the expectations of an upright and desirable citizenry. It sought contributions about the teaching of the Founding principles in the United States, foundations of civic virtue and self-government, respect for civil and military authorities, appreciation for the Constitution and the rule of law, and respect for exertions of prior generations to “secure the blessings of liberty.” In all this, it aimed to erect in-service training for public-school teachers.