October 4, 2024

Civics

Democratic backsliding in the United States and around the world highlights an urgent need for a renewed focus on civic education.

Former Congressman and then presidential candidate Beto O'Rourke visits a high school in Des Moines, IA. Image by Phil Roeder

Former Congressman and then presidential candidate Beto O'Rourke visits a high school in Des Moines, IA. Image by Phil Roeder

Former Congressman and then presidential candidate Beto O'Rourke visits a high school in Des Moines, IA. Image by Phil Roeder

"Multiple studies have shown that younger Americans are losing faith in democracy, and a significant number of them are no longer convinced that it should endure, given the political failure to address issues that they care about....This aligns with broader findings that show public confidence in the federal government has been low for decades."

"...Reimagining and reinvesting in civic education can help reverse these trends by preparing individuals to participate responsibly and effectively in democratic processes and institutions. High-quality civic learning fosters reflective patriotism, understanding of democratic principles, and engagement in civic activities. The result will be a more informed, active, and resilient citizenry capable of sustaining democratic institutions and values." - Danielle S. Allen, Carah Ong Whaley

ARTICLE: Educating for Democracy: The Case for a New Civics

Civics

What we’re facing is serious, and we need to acknowledge the whole truth of it.

ARTICLE: Learning to See in the Dark Amid Catastrophe: An Interview With Deep Ecologist Joanna Macy

Civics

Many Americans still want to live in a compassionate country.

‍ARTICLE: Even as Polarization Surges, Americans Believe They Live in a Compassionate Country

Civics

What does a creative response to polarization look like?

ARTICLE: The Hopeful Thing About Our Ugly, Painful Polarization

Civics

Care, dignity, and belonging as the core antidotes to resentment politics

‍ARTICLE: How Hannah Arendt Can Help Us Understand This New Age of Far-Right Populism