Duties of the Citizen

While the framework of the US, being unusual at the time of its creation, explicitly grants many rights to its citizens, it also expects citizens to oblige with a fair share of their individual duties. This system of giving powers to a vested governing body in return for citizens to live their normal lives is a Social Contract. Social Contract theory was a radical and revolutionary new way of thinking in the late 18th and 19th centuries. Yet the framers of the American Constitution believed it would be the best way of preserving the people's right to self rule, while not constantly engaging in active governing themselves. Instead they would relinquish their powers to elected individuals to be able to carry happily. However, this does not mean that citizens are completely separated from the government and its happenings. Citizens are encouraged to actively voice their opinions if they see a need for change. This right to voice one's opinions is protected by the first amendment. Along with watching the governing process, citizens are also responsible for a few legal duties as well. As specified by The United States Citizenship and Immigration services these include:

• Defending the Constitution- Defending its ideals and the values that it stands for
• Staying informed of community issues- Being aware of what is happening in one's suroundings
• Participate in local community- actively contributing to the betterment of ones community
• Participate in American Democracy and its process- Exercise the democratic right to vote and select representatives
• Obeying federal and state laws
• Respecting the, rights, opinions, and boundaries of other- Not intentionally offending others through one's thoughts, behaviors, or actions
• Paying taxes punctually and with integrity
• Serving on a Jury- Using this Constitutional right to ensure everyone is given a fair trial by jury
• Serving to defend the nation if needed- Signing up for military service if able to do so