Over the next few decades, America will face increasing pressure on its strategic resources due to unprecedented global political and socio-economic growth. Economic challenges might become more pronounced in areas with disproportionate concentration. Despite the complexity of societal changes that make accurate predictions challenging, current trends provide insight into the nation’s future. Among the central factors in shaping America’s history and future is engaged citizenship. Society can strengthen its democratic institutions and foster impartiality and fairness by promoting good citizenship. The United States is currently undergoing a significant transition that will have a profound impact on future generations.
Engaged citizens ensure that the government represents the interests of the people, therefore, a vital component of a successful democracy. Through advocacy for human rights, equality, individual behavior, and responsibility, engaged citizenship impacts America’s present and future (Oldenquist, 1980; Oliphant, 2018). For example, citizens’ understanding of their rights and responsibility has contributed to significant social and political movements throughout American history, including the civil rights movement, women’s suffrage movement, and labor movement (Mascolo, 2016). In addition, Bellah et al. (1996) demonstrated that the need to address issues related to integration, inclusion, and equity can have an impact on public policy and international relations. Therefore, the increasing diversity and ideological divide in society present both challenges and opportunities for the United States.
In conclusion, I am optimistic about the nation’s future since future generations will likely be more engaged. American society is likely to undergo significant changes in the next twenty years, driven by ongoing political, social, and economic developments. Engaged citizenship has led to significant progress in areas such as civil, disability, LGBTQ+, and religious rights. Future generations will be affected by the opportunities and challenges presented by efforts to build a more engaged citizenry. America can further fortify its democratic institutions and advance towards a more just and equitable society that benefits all members of its population by prioritizing the cultivation of engaged citizens. Society should establish an environment that encourages and nurtures engaged citizenship.
References
Bellah, R., Madsen, R., Sullivan, W. M., Swidler, A., & Tipton, S. M. (1996). Individualism and the crisis of civic membership. The Christian Century, 113(16), 510-515. Web.
Mascolo, M. (2016).Is radical individualism destroying our moral compass? Psychology Today. Web.
Oldenquist, A. (1980). On the nature of citizenship. Educational Leadership, 38(1).
Oliphant, B. (2018). 9. The responsibilities of citizenship. Pew Research Center – U.S. Politics & Policy. Web.