Democratic Duty
The duty to vote and participate in politics potentially including running for office.Obeying the Law
The duty to obey the law. This includes the duty to understand the law and monitor changes to the law.Civility
Civility is the duty to work within the systems, rights, freedoms and norms provided by society to resolve disputes. For example, respecting the rights and freedoms of others even if you strongly disagree with them.Duty of Revolution
The duty to overthrow a power that has usurped a democratic government. For example, the duty to overthrow a dictator who has corrupted the systems of government.Justice
The duty to participate in the justice system including jury duty and acting as a witness where required. Justice related duty also includes a moral duty to live up to the foundational values of a society such as "liberté, égalité, fraternité" (liberty, equality, fraternity) in France.Common Defense
A duty to defend a society from threats.General Welfare
A duty to make a society a better place with your actions. For example, volunteering or helping others.
Notes
The concept of civic duty was established by the ancient Romans but is now strongly associated with the United States. Particularly the Preamble to the Constitution noted here:We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.Civic duty is also known as "civic responsibility" and the softer term "civic engagement."The duty to obey the law generally includes the duty to pay taxes. This is sometimes listed as a separate duty.Civic duty produces rights and freedoms. For example, rights and freedoms can't exist without civility.
~ The Constitution of the United States
| Overview: Civic Duty | ||
Type | ||
Definition | Moral or legal duties that apply to all members of a society. | |
Also Known As | Civic ResponsibilityCivic Engagement | |
Related Concepts | ||
