2301+Spring+2009+Week+Two


 * Citizenship and the Keeping of the Republic** - under construction

This week we discuss the purpose of this class and attempt to place it within the context of your previous education -- assuming you went to public schools in the state of Texas (I am interested in whatever input I can get from those of you who went to private schools--be they religious or secular--or were home schooled). The goal of this class is to further your understanding of what it takes to be a citizen in a democratic republic, including what rights and obligations come with the position. We will review the expectations of the state of Texas -- what you are to have learned in K-12--and contrast that with what in fact you do know.

To put this in context, [|a little bit from Monty Python and the Holy Grail].

Readings:

- Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Government from K-12 - "[|The Vital Importance of Civic Education]." - [|The Roman Republic]. - Definition of "[|Citizen]." - Definition of "[|Republic]." - Definition of [|Civic Education]. - [|The Hidden Curriculum].

Terminology:

You should quickly become comfortable with the following terms: [|Government] [|Sovereignty] Institutions. Processes. Legislature. Executive. Judiciary. [|Divine Right] Social Contract Theory. [|Natural Rights] [|Autocracy] [|Oligarchy] [|Democracy] [|Authority] [|Totalitarianism] [|Authoritarianism] [|Constitutionalism] [|Arbitrary] [|Tyranny] [|Coercion] [|Consent]

[|Politics] [|Values] [|Equality] [|Freedom] [|Liberty] [|Interests] [|Political Culture] - (traditionalist, individualist, moralist) [|Ideology] [|Conservative] [|Liberal] [|Socialism] [|Libertarian]

Lecture Topics

-A Republic madam, if you can keep it. -The Lessons of Rome -The Purpose of the American Governmental System -The Role of the Citizen -The Role of Education

Assignments -- forthcoming

Since we have no class on Monday January 19th (MLK Day) I want my internet and lecture students to do the same assignment.

In 200 words I want you to review the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Government from K-12 and read "The Vital Importance of Civic Education." Critically evaluate the process by which the state of Texas attempts to educate children about government and citizenship. Be prepared to discuss this in class next week.

Lecture students, turn this in either January 21st, or 22nd, depending on when your class meets. Bring hard copy to class. Internet students, get this to me by Friday Jan 23rd. Email it to me, Microsoft Word or pasted into the email.