More than 40% of Americans cannot name even one of the freedoms guaranteed in the First Amendment. Only 36% of those surveyed could name even one freedom. Some Americans think there are only three freedoms guaranteed. Actually, we have five freedoms in the First Amendment. Can you name them? If not, let’s get after it […]
Social Media and “Hate Speech”
So, should social media ban hate speech? If so, who should enforce the ban? How do we, as a country, decide who will be the arbiter of what is called “hate speech?” In fact, what is “hate speech?” That has been a huge topic among young people this week. Let’s examine a few questions regarding […]
Ever Have One of “Those” Conversations on Social Media?
Ever have one of “those” conversations with people of differing views on social media? You know, the ones where you think before you comment. You know you are in a territory of opposing viewpoints. However, you decide that this one is worth your time. Know what I’m talking about? Well, I had one of “those” […]
Memorial Day, 2019
How are you celebrating Memorial Day this year? Even better, who are you remembering? I was surprised to find out that a couple of my students had no attachment to our American holidays except to eat food with family. Their response prompted me to ask you for your traditions of celebrating Memorial Day. You know, […]
Washington’s Rules of Civility Book Study (con’t)
We are making our way through a book study of George Washington’s “Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation.” (Applewood Books, 1988). Glad you are here as we learn from our first president the life lessons he thought were essential for success. A recurrent theme in this book is how to treat […]
Word of the Day: Espionage Act
Common Sense Civics and Citizenship Word of the Day: Espionage Act “The Espionage Act of 1917 prohibited obtaining information, recording pictures, or copying descriptions of any information relating to the national defense with intent or reason to believe that the information may be used for the injury of the United States or to the advantage […]