This course was previously titled “Rethinking Citizenship”

“Elections belong to the people. It’s their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters.” ~ Abraham Lincoln

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Beyond being a member of a nation or state, Merriam-Webster defines ‘citizenship’ as “the qualities that a person is expected to have as a responsible member of a community.” What does citizenship mean to you within a democratic republic like the US? Being a citizen conveys responsibilities each individual must meet in order to keep any democracy healthy and functioning. Citizenship is not a passive notion, but a dynamic active experience. To fulfill one’s role as a citizen, it requires an individual to be both informed and engaged.

While it may not be unusual to have a pessimistic view of politics, it is no excuse for lack of participation. Often, we are left to feel powerless or unsure of how to take action when it comes to advocating for those issues or policies we are concerned about the most. This course changes all of that by providing you the tools, skills, and perspective on how to get informed and be active in public life. The U.S. system of federalism provides opportunities to be involved in a multi-layered system of government that functions from the local to the national level.

Government is all around us, and that is not a bad thing. Policies are implemented every day at our local (city or county), state, or national levels that have impact on our lives. We as citizens have a duty to be vigilant and active in expressing our opinions and beliefs so as to have an impact that benefits our communities. While political discussions tend to focus on Washington, DC, there are avenues of action right here in your city or county that you can play a role in changing. This course gives you the know-how to know how to be a productive citizen.

Watch a Preview Video for the Course Here

A syllabus for the updated Fall 2018 course can be downloaded here.

Office Hours: By appointment and as necessary
232 Pugh Hall
kbaron76@ufl.edu
352-846-1575