The Bill of Obligations
The Ten Habits of Good Citizens
Get The Book — Amazon, Opens in a new window. Other retailers & formats ↓About The Bill of Obligations
Richard Haass argues that a democracy depends on citizens’ obligations as well as their rights.
The book sets out habits intended to strengthen public life, including informed participation, civility, and a willingness to put common interests ahead of partisan loyalty.
Following The Gatekeepers, it shifts the leadership discussion from the responsibilities of public officials to the responsibilities shared by citizens.
Why I include it
Citizenship takes work. Haass gives that idea practical shape through civility, truthfulness, participation, and responsibility to others. I appreciate the attention to what citizens owe a democracy, alongside what they expect from it.
