Role of Civic Engagement in a Republic

Learning Objective: Social Psychologist Jonathan Haidt’s “Three Great Untruths” are examined: 1) life is a battle between good people and evil people, 2) what doesn’t kill you makes you weaker, and 3) always trust your feelings. Civic engagement is the antidote to the divisiveness and self-centeredness that belief in these “untruths” fosters.

Option 1: Words & Music.

It’s been suggested that a photograph is worth a thousand words. So imagine what a video is worth! For your Primary assignment this week, post a music video that demonstrates your thoughts on the importance of civic engagement. In at least 600 words, analyze the song’s lyrics and images to help the reader make the connection between the song and the need for civic engagement. Use the assigned course reading materials to support your argument. You can choose your music video or select one of these. If you select a music video that is not on the provided list, you are responsible for it appropriateness. If in doubt, don’t. Be sure to link the video to your assignment.

OR

Option 2: Political Speech and Civic Engagement (a/k/a Deeply Flawed Article)

In June 2019, the Gallup polling organization reported that 23% of Americans viewed immigration as the most important political issue facing the United States. Although we frequently hear American society described as a nation of immigrants, concerns over immigration is not a new topic. In 1896 Senator Henry Cabot Lodge delivered a speech on the floor of the U.S. Senate, titled, The Restriction of Immigration. For this assignment, write a paper of no less than 600 words analyzing and critiquing three arguments presented by Senator Lodge. In your role as an engaged citizen, how would you respond to the views expressed by Lodge? Use specific ideas from the assigned readings in week’s one and two to support your argument.

• The Restriction Of Immigration by Henry Cabot Lodge – Speech in the Senate, March 16, 1896, Nationalists.org