Civic Duties vs. Civic Responsibilities

Civic Responsibility An obligation we fulfill voluntarily “Something we should do”

Duty A thing we are required to do “Requirement”

Military Draft To call up for military service

Tolerance Respecting and accepting others, regardless of their beliefs, practices, or differences

Civic Duty 1. Obey Laws A citizen ’ s most important duty If laws are not followed order is lost

Civic Duty 2. Pay Taxes Tax money is needed for government expenses Example: Income Tax, Sales Tax, Property Tax

Civic Duty 3. Defend the Nation Men ages sign up for the draft (Selective Service) Not used since Vietnam Volunteer Army

Civic Duty 4. Serve in Court Jury duty or serve as a witness

Civic Duty 5. Attend School At least until age 16 Education gives you the knowledge you need to be an informed citizen

Civic Responsibility 1. Be Informed Know what government is doing so you can voice your opinion Watch the news Know your rights

Civic Responsibility 2. Vote US citizens 18 and older can vote Contact their representatives, etc

Civic Responsibility 3. Respect Others Rights Show respect for public property and the property of others

Civic Responsibility 4. Contribute to the Common Good Contribute time, effort, and money to help others

Bureaucracy Complex systems with many departments, many rules, and many people in the chain of command

Welfare The health, prosperity, and happiness of the members of a community

Volunteerism The practice of offering your time and services to others without payment Ex: after school tutoring