In an era where the concept of American citizenship is undergoing significant challenges, Victor Davis Hanson, a distinguished historian and scholar at Hillsdale College, has extended an invitation to anyone interested in understanding the evolution of American citizenship and its decline. Hanson’s eight-lecture course, titled “American Citizenship and Its Decline,” is based on his book, “The Dying Citizen,” and aims to shed light on the challenges that currently face the idea of citizenship in the United States.
Hanson’s course is available online and free of charge, making it accessible to a wide audience eager to explore this thought-provoking topic. The series delves into the beauty of American citizenship, touching upon its historical roots, current crises, and the potential for citizens to regain control of their government.
Hanson emphasizes the rarity of citizenship, both in history and the contemporary world, noting the immense responsibility it places on individuals to shape and manage their government. Citizenship, he argues, necessitates a thriving middle class, which is currently facing economic challenges that threaten its self-reliance.
One of the core principles of citizenship that Hanson discusses is the importance of well-defined and enforced borders. Borders create a civic space where citizens can nurture shared customs, traditions, and their collective past. However, Hanson notes that in recent times, borders have become increasingly fluid, with residency and citizenship sometimes becoming indistinguishable. This shift raises questions about the erosion of shared culture and values in favor of superficial tribalism.
Hanson also addresses top-down challenges, such as the growth of a powerful, unelected bureaucracy that wields significant judicial, executive, and legislative powers, potentially overwhelming the voice of the citizenry. He points out the efforts by revisionists in law, media, and politics to alter constitutional principles and long-standing governance customs for short-term political gains.
Furthermore, globalism, Hanson argues, poses a timeless challenge to the sovereignty of nation-states. In today’s interconnected world, elites may seek to undermine American laws and independence by favoring international organizations without proper legislative consent or the assent of the governed.
Despite these challenges, Hanson concludes his course on an optimistic note. He believes that citizens still possess the ability to restore the traditions of empowered citizenship and regain control over their government. The course aims to inspire participants to take an active role in preserving the essence of American citizenship and upholding the principles upon which the nation was founded.
To enroll in “American Citizenship and Its Decline,” interested individuals can access the course for free by following this secure link: https://online.hillsdale.edu/register/american-citizenship-and-its-decline.
Victor Davis Hanson’s dedication to preserving the ideals of American citizenship and his commitment to making this course available to all is a valuable resource for those seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing citizenship in the United States today. By participating in this series, individuals can engage in a thoughtful exploration of these critical issues and potentially contribute to the revitalization of American citizenship in the years to come.
