Citizenship

Does the importance of social citizenship become relevant to the way we participate politically? Is there a certain obligation under the "social contract" that we are missing somewhere? An ethical and moral obligation toward others? these questions come from reading Social Capital and Norms of Citizenship: An Ambiguous Relationship? by Sonja Zmerli. In this article she covers what it means to be a good social citizen and the norm of participation, encompassing a broad range of civic engagement, substantiates the meaning of democratic citizenship. Participating in public debates, casting one’s vote, or trying to exert an impact on processes of political decision making by other legitimate means ensure that basic democratic principles are adhered to. Also the importance of being an active citizen provokes solidarity, cooperation and public spiritedness. Also outlined is the idea that norms of citizenship are closely related with political trust. The article provokes great thought toward being a citizen. If this tickles you up then read it.