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Book cover of The Bill of Obligations: The Ten Habits of Good Citizens by Richard Haass

The Bill of Obligations

The Ten Habits of Good Citizens

By Richard Haass

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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

I appreciate Haass’s emphasis on civility, truthfulness, participation, and citizenship as an ongoing responsibility.

Collection 07 · Read 2

Political Leadership & Civic Duty

Move from the responsibilities of leaders to the responsibilities of citizens.

What to look for while reading

Which obligations require daily practice? Consider the connections among truthfulness, civility, and democratic legitimacy.

Perspective & context

I brought these books together to compare perspectives and develop judgment. No single author has the final word.

Key themes

  • Citizenship
  • Civic duty
  • Democratic responsibility

Praise & Reviews

“This is a vital work for a decisive time.”
— Jon Meacham

Review source — Opens in a new window.