Location
ZOOM
See map: Google Maps
US
Thursday, November 21, 2024 - 7:00pm to 9:00pm
Our next meeting is on Thursday, November 21 between 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm. We will discuss Richard Haass's The Bill of Obligations: The Ten Habits of Good Citizens.
List of Discussion Questions:
1. Haass advocates for a new national "bill of obligations" to guide American citizens in their civic duties. What do you think of this idea? Are the obligations he suggests sufficient to address the challenges facing the U.S. today? Why or why not?
2. In today's political environment, which of the 10 obligations listed (Be informed, Get involved, Stay open to compromise, Remain civil, Reject violence, Value norms, Promote the common good, Respect government service, Support the teaching of civics, Put country first) do you think are the most important? Why? Or do you have a suggestion of your own?
3. Haass emphasizes the importance of compromise and civility in politics. In your opinion, how important are they, is it possible to maintain these values in an era of deeply polarized political divisions? Can compromise ever truly work in the current political climate?
4. What role does Haass see for education in addressing the political and civic challenges America faces? Do you agree with his views on how history and civics should be taught in schools today?
5. One of Haass's central arguments is that Americans must prioritize the common good over individual self-interest. How do you interpret this? What are the practical challenges of promoting the common good in a diverse, self-interested society?
6. Haass suggests incentivizing government-organized services, such as military service or peace corps programs, in a manner similar to FDR's Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Is it a good idea? Is it practical?
