Education for a DemocraticCitizenship

Education for Democratic Citizenship: A Framework

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Rationale for education in civics and government
If liberty and equality, as is thought by some, are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will best be attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost. Aristotle


The civic mission of the schools. Although it has been argued that the establishment of the proper institutions is sufficient to maintain a free and democratic society, it is clear that even the most well-designed institutions are not sufficient. Ultimately, a free society must rely upon the knowledge, skills, and virtue of its citizens and those they elect to serve in public office on their behalf. Civic education, therefore, is essential to the preservation and improvement of a democratic society and to its governance.
The goal of education in civics and government is informed, responsible participation in p...