Do you think America is headed for another Civil War? I get comments from readers that don’t simply question the possibility. They assume it. Or fear it. Or both. Similarly for some media commentators from time to time. So, I’ve been thinking this through and doing some research. Looks like the idea of another Civil War is being promoted as an unquestionable event to happen soon. I’m not buying it. Emotion is not an effective strategy to accomplish goals. Thinking things through to logical outcomes is a better way toward a satisfactory result. Emotions Alone Cannot Justify Conflict Here are some declarations that feed on emotion: “The USA is coming to its end because all nations come to an end.” “We have no unity,” they say. They call us the “Divided States of America.” Naysayers claim that there are two distinct sides in America, and both have intense dislike for the other. A citizen who may have mental issues takes up arms to kill those with whom they …
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Pursuit of Happiness: Rights and Civic Responsibility
As we continue in our study of the Declaration of Independence, let’s dive deeper into the meaning of the “Pursuit of Happiness” as per a request from one of our participants. Understanding the Pursuit of Happiness When I teach teens this phrase, I start by telling them what it is NOT, i.e., the government buying you a cell phone, paying for your college, or ensuring that you reach a state of contentment. Certainly, our Founding Fathers believed that We the People are responsible for our own happiness. How we achieve this is a matter of personal faith and freedom to pursue our individual goals. The Founders structured a government that allows us to choose our path in life and to develop the discipline necessary to get there. Although imperfectly applied by imperfect humans, when we achieve our goals, the fruits of our labor are ours to enjoy and do not belong to the government. They belong to us. Pursuit of Happiness: Individual Goals and Government's Role When in doubt …
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Candace has a variety of teaching experiences and is a certified instructor for adults and homeschoolers through the Institute on the Constitution. Her hobbies include walking, world travel, Pilates, writing, and spending time with her grandsons. …
Recent Articles
The Next Civil War Seems Unlikely
Do you think America is headed for another Civil War? I get comments from readers that don’t simply question the possibility. They assume it. Or fear it. Or both. Similarly for some media commentators from time to time. So, I’ve been thinking this through and doing some research. Looks like the idea of another Civil […]
Pursuit of Happiness: Rights and Civic Responsibility
As we continue in our study of the Declaration of Independence, let’s dive deeper into the meaning of the “Pursuit of Happiness” as per a request from one of our participants. Understanding the Pursuit of Happiness When I teach teens this phrase, I start by telling them what it is NOT, i.e., the government buying […]
Why Do Younger Americans Embrace Marxism?
Younger Americans are increasingly drawn to Marxism, a trend that raises critical questions about their values, aspirations, and understanding of government and society. I’ve been thinking about this topic since I compiled my recent article, “Marxism: A Utopian Illusion or Reality?” https://civicsandcitizenship.org/marxism-a-utopian-illusion-or-reality I addressed the stark differences between Marxism and a Constitutional Republic. Most older […]
Marxism: A Utopian Illusion or Reality?
More Americans are considering Marxism as a viable system of governance. Who is convincing them that Marxism is the essence of utopia? It is well worth our time to reflect on the differences between Marxism and a Constitutional Republic, since growing numbers of Americans seem willing to embrace governance by a system that is anything […]
Self-Evident Truths: Foundations of Freedom
Have you ever pondered what a self-evident truth is? As we continue our study of the Declaration of Independence, let’s examine how this phrase was used and its significance. Start by reading the words as they are used in this founding American document: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created […]
Due Process: A Right for All?
The question of whether due process is a right reserved solely for American citizens and legal residents invites a deeper exploration of constitutional protections and their implications. Here’s an interesting question I received from a CSCC participant: “Is it possible for Congress to pass a law stating that ‘due process’ is a right for only […]
Correction:
Please note the following error in last week’s article https://civicsandcitizenship.org/reviving-the-declaration-its-modern-relevance George Washington was not a member of the Committee of Five. He was commanding the Continental army at the time. The Committee of Five members were John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Roger Sherman, Robert Livingston, and Benjamin Franklin. I sincerely regret the error.
Decoding the Declaration: Founders’ True Intent
What was the objective of writing the Declaration of Independence? Examining primary sources allows us to discover much more than what is presented in history books. I was pleased to find this quote from Thomas Jefferson in a letter to Henry Lee, which discusses the objective of the Declaration. My explanation follows the letter. Letter […]
America’s 250th Birthday Celebration Begins
You don’t have to wait to begin celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Preparations have already started. It’s a year-long celebration! To find out more about how our country plans to celebrate, check out the website https://america250.org. Here you will find the goals and plans for our semiquincentennial commemoration. Emphasis On Becoming an Informed Patriot Our celebration will […]
