Citizenship is a status in a political system where the individual owes allegiance to, and is entitled to the protection of, the state. Citizenship is usually a condition of participation in government, including voting, paying taxes and participating in public life. It may also involve serving in the military or other forms of public service. The term has many variations in different cultures and in history, and some scholars believe that citizenship is a fluid concept that constantly changes within societies.
A good citizen has a firm grasp on how politics works in their community and can participate in both big and small issues. They take the time to vote and attend meetings. They have a passion for the country and can be patriotic without being afraid to stand up for what they believe in. They have a sense of obligation and responsibility to the nation, and are proud of it and want to help improve it.
They care about the people of the country and are willing to share their skills and talents to improve the quality of life for those around them. They contribute to the economy by buying from local businesses and artisans, rather than large corporations that have a huge carbon footprint. They make an effort to support their local schools and community organizations. They also support a healthy local food supply. They are responsible and abide by the laws of their country and respect and honor their veterans.
During the European Middle Ages, the term citizen applied to towns and cities, with social distinctions that included membership of the bourgeoisie (the members of the middle class in a city or town) or being a member of a guild. These titles were based on property ownership, but the concept of citizen as an entitlement to the protection and privileges of the state was developing at this time.
In ancient Greek times, the concept of citizenship was largely based on how people lived in the organic communities of the polis (city-states). The responsibilities and duties that are associated with being a citizen of the polis are closely linked to one’s daily activities in these small-scale urban communities. The word polis literally means “city,” and this type of citizenship was seen as a new development in world history, in contrast to the established ancient civilizations of Egypt or Persia and hunter-gatherer bands elsewhere.
Under the Fourteenth Amendment, all persons born in the United States or naturalized in the United States are citizens of the United States. This includes individuals who are not born citizens, but whose parents were. Additionally, a corporation is not considered to be a citizen under the Fourteenth Amendment. However, the Constitution does permit corporations to be granted some of the rights and protections that are afforded to citizens under the United States constitution. This is done through corporate citizenship laws and executive orders. In addition, some countries have laws that grant citizenship to foreign nationals who are employed or otherwise working in the country.