Civic Engagement Seminar

Concept
This module is designed to explore what college students think the concept of "democracy" means. Students will also explore other definitions of democracy.

What is a democracy? According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the term was first used in 1576. As far as language goes, "democracy" is a relatively new term, and is based on the Greek word "demokratia." In Greek, "demos" means "the people", and "kratia" means "power".

Pre-flective Activity
In your journal, first define democracy for yourself. Second, find three authoritative definitions (i.e. dictionary) of the word "democracy" and record those definitions in your journal. How do they compare with your original definition?

Readings

• "Patriotism and Civic Literacy" speech by Margaret Branson, Associate Director, Center for Civic Education

• The Declaration of Independence

• United States Constitution

• Bill of Rights

• Amendments XIII, XIV, & XV

Optional: For access to scanned original early American documents, visit this web site: http://www.law.emory.edu/FEDERAL/conpict.html

Reflective Activity
Think about your original definition of the word democracy. In your journal record your thoughts to the following questions: How do you feel you arrived at this definition? Have any of the readings reinforced your own definition or do you know have a different perspective on the definition of democracy?

Democracies obviously depend on people (remember, the word is derived from two Greek words meaning "people" and "power"). Although democracies provide for the RIGHTS of persons in a democracy, there are also RESPONSIBILITIES that individuals must acknowledge and act upon in order to make a democracy work. Think about the following four questions and record your thoughts in your journal:

1. What does an effective citizen need to know? (how laws are made, etc.)
2. What skills does an effective citizen need? (speaking, reading, etc.)
3. What attitudes does an effective citizen need? (believe that one person can make a difference, etc.)
4. What does an effective citizen need to do? (vote, etc.)

After completing this module, please proceed to Module 3: Political Philosophies.