Equality is one of the most familiar American ideals. It is also one of the most difficult to define in practice. The Declaration of Independence states that all people are created equal. Yet equality does not mean that everyone will have the same income, education, abilities, opportunities, or life experiences. It means that people should … Read more
Two hundred and fifty years after the Declaration of Independence, America has much to celebrate. It also has much to examine. In 1776, the country declared not only its independence from Britain but also a set of principles that would define its purpose. Equality, Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness became part of the … Read more
Democracy gives citizens the power to choose their leaders, but that power works only when voters understand the choices before them. Casting a ballot is not enough by itself. Voters must know what candidates stand for, how government works, what rights are being protected, and what consequences may follow from political decisions. Without that knowledge, … Read more
Businesses use mission statements to define what they stand for, what they hope to accomplish, and how they intend to serve the people who depend on them. The same idea can be applied to a nation. A country may not use the term mission statement, but it still needs a clear sense of purpose. Without … Read more
