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Qualities of a Good Citizen: Characteristics and Examples

Categories: Citizenship

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Published: Sep 12, 2023

Words: 623 | Page: 1 | 4 min read

Introduction, responsibility: a pillar of good citizenship, respect: fostering harmony and unity, active participation: the engine of change, examples of good citizenship.

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How To Be A Good Citizen Essay | Qualities and Benefits of A Good Citizen Essay

October 18, 2021 by Prasanna

How To Be A Good Citizen Essay: What does it really mean to be a good citizen? This is a question that has been debated for many years, but the answer remains unclear. The definition of citizenship varies from person to person. It can be defined as an individual who participates in the running of their society, or someone who bears rights and duties within their society. Citizens are also people who are eligible for citizenship in the state they reside in.

On the other hand, citizenship is a legal concept usually defined as the status of a person recognized under the custom or law as being a legal member of a sovereign state or belonging to a nation. The word may apply both to natural persons and legal persons. The definition of citizenship used by governments or institutions differs based on their values and beliefs. For example, while some countries may define citizens as people born there while others may include those with parents born locally, some countries do not require you to have any connection at all to be considered eligible for citizenship. Regardless, citizens are an integral component of a functional society. In this essay, we shall explore what it means to be a good citizen, importance, benefits, characteristics and more.

You can also find more Essay Writing articles on events, persons, sports, technology and many more.

Who is a Good Citizen?

In today’s world, it is very easy to fall into the trap of being a “bad citizen”. The key to being a good citizen is being an active participant in society and contributing to the greater good. A person can be a good citizen through various ways such as: volunteering, philanthropy, charity work, etc.

So how do we bring this idea of a good citizen into our day-to-day life? First and foremost, we have to be an active participant in society and not just sit on the sidelines. We have to get involved with what is going on around us and talk about these issues with others. In order for change to happen in society there has to be a conscious effort from all of us. A good citizen is also someone who contributes to their society, does not take more than they need, and helps others. It is important for people to be good citizens because it benefits the society as a whole.

What are the Qualities of a Good Citizen?

Qualities of a good citizen are qualities that people should have in order to make the world a better place. Qualities of a good citizen are as follows:

Good Citizens always obey the law – In order to be a good citizen, one must obey the law. There are many reasons as to why one should abide by the law. One reason being that if one breaks the law, they will have to pay a penalty for their actions. If an individual does not follow the law, they may be causing inconvenience to others, putting others or themselves at risk for physical, financial or emotional damages.
Good Citizens pay taxes – A good citizen always pays taxes. People who do not pay their taxes are considered tax evaders. Tax evasion is illegal in most countries and can result in fines, jail time, or both. Moreover, tax helps to maintain public infrastructure, which is essential for a healthy society.
Good Citizens serve on a jury – Jury duty is a privilege, not a punishment. It is a common misconception that jury duty is a punishment. In fact, jury duty is a privilege because it allows citizens to participate in the democratic process. Everyone has the right to be judged by their peers-the jurors in their community.
Good Citizens always vote – Voting is one of the most important rights and duties of any citizen in any democracy. Moreover, it is a fundamental right that is necessary for the existence of democracy in any country.
Good Citizens do not litter – One of the most important issues in our global society is littering. It’s not hard to see it everywhere, whether it be near your house or on the side of the highway. Littering is not only an eyesore, but it can also be detrimental to the environment.
Good Citizens respect the rights of others – The Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would have them do to you,” is a good guideline for good citizenship around the world. It’s a universal and timeless principle that respects the rights of all people, and encourages cooperation and understanding among cultures.
Good Citizens are Loyal – Good citizens are people who are loyal to their country. They obey the law, they help others, and they are honest.
Good citizens are Responsible – Responsible citizens are good citizens. They are the ones who volunteer every day for their community. A responsible citizen takes care of their home, car, and friends. They are honest, dependable, and trustworthy.

Importance of Being a Good Citizen

In recent years, citizenship has been a much debated topic in political and social circles. The term “good citizen” is usually defined as being civic minded and knowing the rights and obligations of citizenship. Citizenship lessons are typically taken by children when they are in grade school. But recent research has shown that adults should also receive the lessons. Adults who take these lessons are more likely to be civically engaged in their community. In a nutshell, being a good citizen is more than just following the law. It is about being a good person, which includes having empathy for other people and setting a good example for others to follow.

How to be More Involved in Your Community

Volunteering is a great way to share your skills and help others. It is also a good opportunity to learn new things and meet new people. Volunteering can be done in many different ways, such as:

Helping out at a soup kitchen
Teaching underprivileged children
Helping elderly
Participating in trail cleanups
Become a foster parent
Teach a life skills class
Volunteer at a homeless shelter
Volunteer at a community center
Volunteer at an animal shelter

Benefits of Being a Good Citizen

There are many benefits to being a good citizen. Good citizenship can help you get a good reputation, it can be an example for others, and it can help you feel better about yourself.

One of the most important things in life is to be able to take pride in oneself. A good citizen does this by contributing to the welfare of the society. We must be honest, truthful, and brave in order to make our nation great again. It is not always easy to be a good citizen in today’s society. But in the long run, it will pay off and make life easier for you and others.

Being a good citizen can enhance one’s personal sense of well-being. Residents who take care of communities, participate in the political process, and volunteer for civic activities feel a greater sense of community and affiliation.

A good citizen improves society and makes a positive difference in the world. Building a society that values the needs of every single citizen is an important step in moving our world forward. When we cultivate a sense of belonging and support, we create a society that can thrive.

Moreover, being a good citizen is one of the most important things you can do for the environment. It’s possible to save our environment and reduce our carbon footprints by recycling, using less energy, conserving water, and planting trees.

Being a good citizen is not just a superficial label that a person can be proud of. It is about having a sense of responsibility towards the society that we live in and for the world we will leave behind. Being a good citizen is more than just voting every year. It’s about being an active citizen. Being an active citizen means being involved in your community and taking action to make it a better place. Here are some great ways to become more civic minded:

Get involved with a local charity, or start your own. Another excellent option is to volunteer your time at the orphanage, old-age home, soup kitchens, animal rescue shelters etc. Alternatively, teaching languages math, science or other subjects for underprivileged children or even adults who are willing to learn something new. Regardless, being a good citizen is one of the best things you can do for your community. By being a good citizen, you are helping to enrich the lives of others as well as yourself.

FAQ’s on How To Be A Good Citizen Essay

Question 1. Who is a Good Citizen?

Answer: A good citizen is someone who fulfills their duties to their community, state, or nation. They are generally law abiding and are not seeking to cause any harm.

Question 2. Why should you be a good citizen?

Answer: People often believe that being a good citizen is just a matter of following the law. But, in reality, it’s more complicated than that. Being a good citizen means doing your part in society and supporting the things you care about. It means engaging with your community and giving back to those around you.

Question 3. What are the qualities of a good citizen?

Answer: A good citizen has the following qualities:

Abides the law
Always vote
Do not litter
Always respect the rights of others
Are loyal and responsible
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What Does it Mean to Be a Good Citizen?

In this section.

"We don't agree on everything—but we do agree on enough that we can work together to start to heal our civic culture and our country." CPL's James Piltch asked people all over the US what it means to be a good citizen .

Essay on Who is a Good Citizen

Students are often asked to write an essay on Who is a Good Citizen in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Who is a Good Citizen

Understanding a good citizen.

A good citizen is someone who respects others and their property. They are friendly, helpful, and considerate. They understand their rights and responsibilities as a member of a community. They always try to make their surroundings a better place for everyone.

Responsibilities of a Good Citizen

A good citizen always follows the rules and laws of their country. They pay their taxes on time and vote in elections to support democracy. They respect the rights of others and do not harm or disturb anyone. They help others in need and participate in community activities.

Qualities of a Good Citizen

A good citizen is honest, brave, and responsible. They always tell the truth and stand up for what is right. They take responsibility for their actions and do not blame others for their mistakes. They respect diversity and treat everyone equally.

Role of a Good Citizen in Society

A good citizen plays an important role in society. They contribute to the well-being of their community by volunteering, cleaning up the environment, and helping the less fortunate. They promote peace and harmony by treating others with kindness and respect.

250 Words Essay on Who is a Good Citizen

Who is a good citizen, respecting laws.

A good citizen follows all the rules and laws of their country. They know that rules are made to keep everyone safe and to make sure things are fair. They do not break laws, even if they think no one is watching.

Caring for Others

A good citizen cares about other people. They help those who need it. They might give food to a person who is hungry, help a neighbor with their work, or just be kind to someone who is having a bad day. They think about how their actions affect others.

Being Active in the Community

A good citizen is active in their community. They might vote in elections, attend town meetings, or join a local club or group. They want to be involved in making decisions that affect their community.

Protecting the Environment

A good citizen also cares about the environment. They do things like recycle, pick up litter, and use less water and electricity. They know that taking care of the environment is important for the future.

In conclusion, a good citizen is someone who respects laws, cares for others, is active in their community, and protects the environment. By doing these things, they help make their country a better place for everyone.

500 Words Essay on Who is a Good Citizen

Respect for rules and laws.

A good citizen always follows the rules and laws of their country. They understand that these rules are made for everyone’s safety and well-being. They also know that breaking these rules can lead to problems for them and others around them. For example, they follow traffic rules, pay taxes on time, and respect public property.

Active Participation

Good citizens are actively involved in their community. They vote in elections, attend local meetings, and voice their opinions on matters that impact their community. They understand that their opinion matters and that they can contribute to positive changes in their society.

Respect for Others

Responsible behavior.

Good citizens display responsible behavior. They take care of their environment by not littering, recycling waste, and using resources wisely. They also take care of public property and do not damage it. They understand that the resources and facilities they enjoy are shared with others, and they need to use them responsibly.

Education and Awareness

A good citizen is educated and informed. They keep themselves updated about what is happening in their country and the world. They also understand the importance of education and encourage others to get educated. They know that an educated society is a progressive society.

Remember, every small action counts. Even simple acts like throwing trash in the bin, helping an elderly person cross the road, or voting in elections can make you a good citizen. So, let’s strive to be good citizens and make our society a better place to live in.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Happy studying!

25 Ways You Can Be a Good Citizen: It’s Easier Than You Think

Last Updated: August 9, 2024 Fact Checked

25 Ways to Be a Good Citizen

Teaching children good citizenship skills, expert interview, expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Miatrai Brown, Esq. and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Miatrai Brown is an Immigration Lawyer based in Washington D.C. With over 10 years of academic and professional experience, her areas of focus include employment-based nonimmigrant and immigrant visas, investment-based immigration, family-based immigration, risk management assessment, and regulatory compliance. She began her legal career exclusively practicing immigration and nationality law as external immigration counsel to large U.S. corporations and fast-moving start-ups. After six years at top immigration firms, she opened her own practice, Direct U.S. Immigration. This move was motivated by her desire to provide more access to a high level of immigration support to clients worldwide. As a thoughtful and strategic advisor on immigration and related matters, Direct U.S. Immigration earned an impressive honor as Immigration Law Firm of the Year 2023 – Washington DC. There are 16 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 505,521 times.

Whether you're trying to establish yourself in a new country or living in the same country where you were born, being a good citizen is more about supporting and improving your community than being extremely patriotic. We talked to immigration attorney Miatrai Brown to find out what makes someone a good citizen and what you can do to become a more active and engaged member of your community. We'll also give you some ideas you can use to teach your kids good citizenship skills that they can carry with them into adulthood.

Good Citizenship

Vote and engage actively in local politics, staying up-to-date on issues.
Respect your country's laws and pay your taxes.
Conserve resources and keep your community clean and green.
Support local farms, businesses, and tradespeople in your community.
Accept, tolerate, and learn from other beliefs, opinions, and perspectives.

Brown emphasizes that if you want to be a good citizen, you must "actively engage in [your] community's political, social, and cultural spheres, participating in voting, public meetings, and local activities."
Going to local political party or political interest group meetings can also help you keep up to date with local issues and candidates.
During election season, consider volunteering at local elections, with a voting rights organization, or for a candidate for public office.

Keep in mind that getting called doesn't necessarily mean you'll get to sit on an actual jury. Attorneys and judges can excuse jurors for many different reasons depending on the type of case.

Step 3 Contact your representatives about issues that matter to you.

Check your official government site to find out who your representatives are and how you can contact them.
Contacting your representatives about issues is most effective if you have a lot of other people doing it with you. Elected officials' offices typically keep track of the number of calls or letters they get on either side of an issue.
If a representative's constituency overwhelmingly wanted them to vote "no" on a proposal, a "yes" vote from them could mean the end of their political career. For this reason, they do take public opinion into account.

Step 4 Protest to make your voice heard.

Remember that your representatives represent you. If they're doing things that aren't in line with what you want, you have the right to let them know.

Step 5 Follow all laws and regulations that apply to you.

Following the law includes tax laws, with 71% of Americans agreeing that paying all the taxes you owe is very important to being a good citizen.
Brown notes that good citizens "respect their country's laws and regulations, as well as the rights of others."
A good citizen also doesn't discriminate against others on the basis of something that person has no control over, such as their race, gender, or disability.

Step 6 Stand up to injustice when you see it.

This doesn't mean you should put your own safety at risk—that's definitely not required just to be a good citizen.
If you're worried about something happening to you if your identity is known, look for ways you can report injustice to the proper authorities anonymously.

Step 7 Respect both public and private property.

This includes carrying the appropriate insurance so that you can cover any damages you accidentally cause, or for injuries that occur on your property.

Step 8 Donate money to organizations that share your beliefs.

While regular donations are a part of many religious traditions, you don't have to be religious to support causes that have meaning to you.

Step 9 Participate in fundraising events and activities.

Don't forget that you're also raising money for a good cause! Choose the events in your area that you want to support and build enthusiasm through social media to get your total donations up.

Step 10 Conserve water and energy wherever possible.

If you're able to do so, check out alternative energy sources, such as wind and solar, and see if they could work for you to help you reduce your impact on the environment.
Tell others about your conservation efforts—they're likely to copy you and start doing the same things. [12] X Research source

Step 11 Reduce waste by recycling or reusing whenever possible.

For example, buying a filtered water pitcher and drinking out of a reusable bottle instead of buying individually bottled water saves a lot of plastic.
You might also turn an old piece of furniture into a craft project and "up-cycle" it into something cool instead of just throwing it out.

If you don't have a garden, you can give away the compost to neighbors who do—you'll likely end up getting some free produce out of the exchange!

Step 13 Pick up litter around your neighborhood.

Most trash can safely and easily be picked up and thrown away, but you might want to wear a pair of gardening gloves to protect you from broken glass and other sharp or jagged edges.

Step 14 Volunteer to help people in need in your community.

You might also decide to volunteer with an established local organization, such as a shelter or clinic.
Brown notes that "an exemplary citizen is someone who embodies responsibility, engagement, and dedication to the welfare of their community and broader society."
Good citizens are "empathetic and compassionate," Brown adds. "They understand and respond to the needs and concerns of others, offering help when they can."

Step 15 Support locally owned small businesses.

Getting produce from your local farmer's market is a great way to support your community while also protecting the environment.

Step 16 Start or work in a community garden.

If you live in a house with a yard, you might encourage your neighbors to turn their yards into gardens so you can coordinate the crops you grow.

Step 17 Use public transportation when possible.

If you own a car and find that you don't use it all that often, you might consider sharing it with a neighbor to further build community.

Many community groups also meet at libraries, since most libraries also serve as community centers. It's a great place to get involved and find out what's going on in your neighborhood.

Step 19 Prepare for emergencies or disasters.

When disaster strikes, donate blood if you're physically able. You can help save lives in your community.
You might also get emergency training so that you can help out in the event of a natural disaster or similar tragedy. [22] X Research source

Step 20 Get vaccinated and maintain your health.

When you're in decent physical shape, you're better able to help those around you who might not have the same abilities.

Step 21 Take responsibility for your own decisions and actions.

Brown emphasizes that a good citizen is dedicated to "understanding and fulfilling their rights and obligations with due diligence."
"Honesty and trustworthiness are key traits of a good citizen," Brown continues, "who neither lies nor cheats, and remains accountable for their actions."

Step 22 Accept and tolerate different ideas and beliefs.

Brown notes that good citizens "embrace diversity and individual differences, treating everyone with kindness and empathy, without discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or other factors."
"As open-minded and adaptable individuals," Brown adds, good citizens "welcome new ideas and perspectives."

Step 23 Learn about the history of your country and its government.

This is all the more important if you grew up in a different country because you missed out on the opportunity to learn this information in school.

Step 24 Stay up-to-date on current events and political issues.

Brown notes that a good citizen is always "conscious of the issues affecting their community" and endeavors to "effect improvements while supporting local institutions and organizations."

Step 25 Attend town or community meetings.

Local political groups or political party chapters also tend to have meetings fairly often and can be great ways to get involved in your local civic life.

Step 1 Take your children to volunteer in your community.

Remember that the unhoused are your neighbors too! You can help them by volunteering at a local shelter or soup kitchen as well as by donating food and other items.

While you're at the park, you might also see other opportunities to teach kids good citizenship skills. For example, an older child might help a younger one who needs help getting up a ladder to the slide.

Step 3 Participate in town meetings and other functions with your kids.

For example, if your community is discussing plans for a vacant lot, your kids might discuss the value of making the lot into a dog park so everyone could bring their dogs out to play and interact.

Step 4 Show your kids how local government works.

You might also talk to them about the different government workers you encounter and what they do. This can help your kids learn respect for working people who keep the government running.

Step 5 Have age-appropriate discussions about current events.

Sometimes these discussions can get really difficult, such as if there's a school shooting or other event where children are killed. Local schools and community centers typically have resources to help parents talk to their kids about these kinds of devastating events.
If a tragic event happens in your community, reach out to professionals, including psychologists, counselors, and educators.

Step 6 Help your child sort and donate things they no longer need.

You might set up a regular box for donations so that your kids can simply drop things in there that they no longer want. Then, when the box gets full, you can sort the donations and take them to the appropriate places.

Step 7 Encourage your kids to offer help to neighbors.

Tutor younger kids in subjects they're strong in
Mow an elderly neighbor's yard
Get groceries for a disabled neighbor

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about citizenship, check out our in-depth interview with Miatrai Brown, Esq. .

↑ https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2019/07/02/what-makes-a-good-citizen-voting-paying-taxes-following-the-law-top-list/
↑ https://www.pewresearch.org/global/2022/11/16/what-makes-someone-a-good-member-of-society/
↑ https://www.unomaha.edu/international-studies-and-programs/_files/docs/adler-goggin-civic-engagement.pdf
↑ https://www.unicefusa.org/stories/5-ways-stand-against-racism-and-injustice
↑ https://madison.rbusd.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=935514&type=d&pREC_ID=1267713
↑ https://friendsoftheearth.uk/climate-change/protecting-the-environment
↑ https://climategen.org/take-action/take-action-in-your-home-school-or-community/
↑ https://www.un.org/en/actnow/ten-actions
↑ https://citizensandscholars.org/5-ways-to-be-an-engaged-citizen-besides-voting/
↑ https://extension.psu.edu/a-community-approach-to-disaster-preparedness-and-response
↑ https://training.fema.gov/emiweb/downloads/is7unit_5.pdf
↑ https://wayne.osu.edu/news/ways-be-good-citizen-make-difference-your-community
↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/what_does_it_mean_to_be_an_engaged_citizen
↑ https://youth.gov/youth-topics/civic-engagement-and-volunteering
↑ https://www.all4kids.org/news/blog/community-service-for-families/
↑ https://durham.ces.ncsu.edu/2020/05/teaching-your-child-civic-engagement-at-home/

About This Article

One way to be a good citizen is to volunteer with organizations that mean a lot to you, like groups that build homes for the less fortunate, mentor youth, or feed the homeless. If donating your time is difficult, then you can donate money, clothing, or other household goods. Additionally, you can donate blood and plasma to help save lives. If you want to be civically active, vote in every election, contact your representatives about issues that matter to you, and offer to help during election times. To learn how to help protect your city’s future, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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20 Key Traits: Unraveling What Makes a Good Citizen

By: Author Valerie Forgeard

Posted on April 6, 2024

Categories Community , Society

In today’s interconnected and diverse world, understanding what makes a good citizen is more important than ever.

It’s not just about adhering to laws or engaging in community activities; it’s about embodying the values contributing to a harmonious and functioning society.

Being a good citizen encompasses a spectrum of responsibilities, rights, and a fundamental respect for others.

This exploration delves into the qualities and behaviors that define a good citizen, from active participation in the democratic process and community welfare to respect for diversity and the commitment to ethical and moral principles.

Whether through community service, informed voting, or simply exhibiting kindness and understanding in daily interactions, good citizenship is crucial for the betterment of society.

Let’s explore the multifaceted role of a citizen and how each individual’s contribution can lead to a stronger, more cohesive community.

Key Takeaways

Incorporating these 20 essential qualities and actions, from informed voting to ethical behavior, every individual can significantly contribute to the strength and cohesion of their community, exemplifying the true essence of good citizenship.
Fulfilling civic duties contributes to the maintenance and improvement of the community and country.
Practicing tolerance and respect strengthens the community and embraces diversity.
Engaging in community service by volunteering time and skills contributes to the common good.
Staying informed and thoughtful by seeking accurate information and consulting diverse perspectives is crucial for a healthy democracy.

The Blueprint of Good Citizenship: 20 Essential Qualities and Actions

In the tapestry of society, every citizen plays a pivotal role in weaving the fabric of a cohesive and prosperous community.

Good citizenship goes beyond the essential civic duties; it embodies a spectrum of qualities and actions that contribute to the well-being and betterment of society.

From civic engagement and respect for laws to compassion and community involvement, good citizens are the pillars that uphold the values of democracy, equality, and mutual respect.

This list delves into 20 key things that make a good citizen, highlighting how we can contribute positively to our community and beyond:

Informed Voting : Participating in elections with an understanding of the issues and candidates.
Community Involvement : Engaging in local events, initiatives, and public forums.
Volunteering : Offering time and skills to support community projects or needy individuals.
Environmental Stewardship : Acting responsibly towards the environment and promoting sustainable practices.
Respecting Laws : Adhering to the laws and regulations that govern society.
Paying Taxes : Fulfilling financial obligations that support communal infrastructure and services.
Jury Duty Participation : Serving on a jury when called upon as part of the justice system.
Promoting Equality : Advocating for and practicing equality and fairness in all aspects of life.
Encouraging Diversity : Embracing and respecting cultural and ideological diversity.
Ethical Behavior : Upholding moral principles in both personal and public spheres.
Educational Advancement : Pursuing and valuing lifelong learning and informed awareness.
Responsible Parenthood : Raising children to be informed, respectful, and responsible citizens.
Active Listening : Being open to understanding diverse viewpoints and opinions.
Public Health Awareness : Adhering to health guidelines for the safety and well-being of the community.
Supporting Local Economy : Patronizing local businesses and participating in local economic activities.
Charitable Giving : Donating to causes and organizations that support community welfare.
Positive Role Modeling : Exemplifying commendable behaviors for others to follow.
Civic Advocacy : Supporting policies and initiatives that improve community life.
Conflict Resolution : Engaging in peaceful and constructive solutions to disagreements.
Cultural Participation : Engaging in and supporting local arts, traditions, and heritage.

Each of these qualities and actions contributes to the strength and vitality of a community. Good citizens drive a thriving society where mutual respect, active participation, and a sense of duty pave the way for collective progress and harmony.

Understanding Civic Duties

As a good citizen, you’re expected to fulfill several civic duties that contribute to maintaining and improving your community and country.

Among these, understanding and exercising your voting rights stand paramount. It’s your voice in the corridors of power, shaping the policies that govern your freedom and everyday life.

Equally important is legal literacy – knowing your rights and responsibilities under the law ensures you can advocate for yourself and others effectively. You’re empowered to participate in civic discourse, and your informed presence strengthens the fabric of democracy.

Your active engagement isn’t just your right; it’s a testament to the value you place on the freedom you cherish.

Practicing Tolerance and Respect

You’ll strengthen your community by practicing tolerance and respecting your fellow citizens’ diverse beliefs and backgrounds.

Embracing diversity appreciation isn’t just about avoiding conflict; it’s about enriching your life with various perspectives and experiences. It requires cultural empathy—an effort to understand and share the feelings of others, especially those from different cultures or communities.

As a good citizen, you must uphold the freedom that allows such diversity to flourish. Remember, your rights end where others begin.

By showing respect and tolerance, you’re not just coexisting; you’re actively fostering an environment where freedom isn’t just a principle but a lived reality for everyone.

This respectful approach ensures that all voices are heard and valued, creating a stronger, more united community.

Engaging in Community Service

Volunteer your time and skills to local initiatives, as engaging in community service is a cornerstone of good citizenship. By doing so, you’re contributing to the common good and strengthening your community. Here’s how you can get involved:

Explore Volunteer Opportunities: Look for local organizations that align with your passions.
Support Neighborhood Initiatives: Whether it’s a clean-up drive or a food bank, every bit helps.
Offer Your Expertise: Use your professional skills for the benefit of others.
Encourage Others: Inspire friends and family to make a difference.

Staying Informed and Thoughtful

As a good citizen, you’re tasked with seeking accurate information, forming the backbone of a healthy democracy. Your ability to apply critical thinking skills allows you to filter through the noise and understand complex issues facing your community.

You mustn’t be just informed but also thoughtful in your judgments and decisions.

Seeking Accurate Information

Every responsible citizen must diligently seek accurate information to make informed decisions. In an era where misinformation can spread rapidly, you’re tasked with a crucial role: to be a beacon of truth. Here’s how you can stay informed and thoughtful:

Embrace fact-checking : Regularly verify the credibility of your sources.
Prioritize information literacy : Understand how to find and use information effectively.
Consult diverse perspectives : Challenge your views by exploring different viewpoints.
Stay updated, but take breaks : Keep abreast of news while avoiding information overload.

Committing to these practices ensures you remain a free thinker, unswayed by falsehoods. Remember, your quest for truth upholds the very essence of freedom that you cherish.

Critical Thinking Skills

To stay informed and thoughtful, you’ll need to hone your critical thinking skills, allowing you to sift through information and discern what’s truly relevant and accurate.

Questioning assumptions and analyzing evidence are foundational to this process. You must challenge the status quo and seek diverse perspectives to fully understand the issues.

Here’s a concise guide to aid you:

Critical Thinking Step	Description
Identify Assumptions	Recognize underlying beliefs in arguments.
Check for Bias	Look for angles or partiality in information.
Analyze the Evidence	Evaluate the data supporting claims.
Consider Alternatives	Explore different viewpoints and explanations.
Draw Conclusions	Formulate judgments based on the analysis.

Upholding Ethical Standards

You’re expected to adhere to ethical standards that are the foundation for trustworthy and responsible societal behavior.

These standards are crucial for maintaining your integrity and guiding your moral compass. Upholding these principles isn’t just about legality but also about contributing to a community where freedom and mutual respect are paramount.

Consider these key elements:

Honesty: Be truthful in your dealings and communications.
Fairness: Treat others equally, without bias or favoritism.
Respect for others: Acknowledge the rights and liberties of those around you.
Accountability: Take responsibility for your actions and their impact on others.

Promoting Environmental Sustainability

As a good citizen, your commitment extends beyond social ethics to embracing practices that protect our planet’s health. Engaging in green initiatives isn’t just about following trends but making informed choices that contribute to sustainable living.

You have the power to influence your community and environment positively. By reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting eco-friendly products, you play a pivotal role in the collective effort to safeguard our natural resources.

Encouraging Civic Participation

Civic engagement is your pathway to directly shaping the society you live in. As an advocate for freedom, you understand the power that lies within active participation. Encouraging civic participation isn’t just about fulfilling a duty; it’s about exercising your voting rights to elect leaders who reflect your values and addressing societal issues that impact us all.

Here are four key actions you can take:

Register to vote and participate in every election.
Stay informed on local and national issues.
Engage in public debates, respectfully sharing and considering different viewpoints.
Encourage others to get involved and use their voice.

Your involvement is crucial. Each action you take strengthens democratic principles and ensures freedom rings loud and clear in every corner of our society.

In the tapestry of society, you’re both the weaver and the thread. By fulfilling your civic duties, you intertwine with the fabric of the community, while your tolerance and respect color it with harmony.

Your engagement in service strengthens the bonds, as staying informed and ethical shapes the pattern. You champion sustainability, preserving the canvas for generations, and by encouraging participation, you ensure the masterpiece thrives.

Be a citizen who not only belongs but contributes to a flourishing society.

What Is a “Good Citizen”? a Systematic Literature Review

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First Online: 01 September 2021

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Cristóbal Villalobos 23 ,
María Jesús Morel 23 &
Ernesto Treviño 24

Part of the book series: IEA Research for Education ((IEAR,volume 12))

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The concept of “good citizenship” has long been part of discussions in various academic fields. Good citizenship involves multiple components, including values, norms, ethical ideals, behaviors, and expectations of participation. This chapter seeks to discuss the idea of good citizenship by surveying the academic literature on the subject. To map the scientific discussion on the notion of good citizenship, a systematic review of 120 academic articles published between 1950 and 2019 is carried out. The review of the literature shows that good citizenship is broadly defined, incorporating notions from multiple fields, although these are mainly produced in Western countries with comparatively higher income levels. Additionally, although there is no single definition of good citizenship, the academic literature focuses on three components: the normative, active, and personal dimensions. This systematic review informs the estimation of citizenship profiles of Chap. 3 using the IEA International Civic and Citizenship Education Study (ICCS) 2016.

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1 Introduction

The concept of “good citizenship” is part of a long-standing discussion in various academic fields, such as political science, education, sociology, anthropology, evolution, and history, among others. In addition, good citizenship involves various components, including values, norms, ethical ideals, behaviors, and expectations of participation. Finally, the idea of good citizenship is related to diverse contemporary issues, such as patterns of political participation, the meaning of democracy and human rights, the notion of civic culture, equal rights, and the role of technology in the digital era (Bolzendahl and Coffé 2009 ; Dalton 2008 ; Hung 2012 ; Noula 2019 ).

In this regard, the notion of good citizenship can be considered as a concept with three basic characteristics: multidisciplinary, multidimensional, and polysemic. Therefore, the definition of good citizenship is a topic of constant debate and academic discussion. This chapter seeks to discuss the idea of good citizenship, with the aim of contributing to the understanding of this phenomenon and its social, political, and educational implications. In this way, this chapter aims to map the academic discussion and literature regarding the notion of good citizenship, presenting the key debates about the limits and possibilities of this concept in the framework of the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) International Civic and Citizenship Education Study (ICCS) 2016.

In order to organize this complex debate, we start from the premise that any notion of good citizenship is composed of the interaction of two definitions. On the one hand, it involves a certain notion of membership, that is, of belonging to a community. As Stokke ( 2017 ) shows, the definition of who is (and who is not) a citizen is, in itself, a subject of debate, since the definition of citizenship implies political, social, cultural, and legal components. On the other hand, the definition of good citizenship always implies a conceptual position regarding how citizens are expected to act and what they are expected to believe (the “public good” component). In this sense, the debate focuses on the types of behaviors that should be promoted and their ethical-political basis, which is highly dynamic depending on the cultural and historical context (Park and Shin 2006 ). Finally, in order to answer the question about the meaning of good citizenship, it is necessary to first decide who qualifies as a citizen, and how they are expected to behave.

Considering these objectives, the chapter is structured into five sections, including this introduction. The second section describes the systematic review methodology used to select the literature and analyze the discussion regarding the concept of good citizenship. The third and fourth sections describe the results of the analysis, mapping the main trends and characteristics of the academic discussion on good citizenship and exploring its different meanings. Finally, the fifth section presents the conclusions, focusing on the conceptual challenges and methodological limitations to be considered in future research.

2 Methodology

2.1 the systematic review.

We conducted a systematic review to map the academic discussion on good citizenship. This review seeks to identify, evaluate, and analyze the publications in relevant fields of study, in order to determine what has already been written on this topic, what works and what does not, and where new studies are needed (Petticrew and Roberts 2006 ). Through the definition of eligibility criteria, the systematic review is an explicit and reproducible methodology that allows for both an evaluation of the validity of the results of the selected studies (Higgins and Green 2011 ) and the objective valuation of evidence by summarizing and systematically describing the characteristics and results of scientific research (Egger 1997 ). In this regard, the systematic review, unlike other forms of literature review, allows for recognizing “gray” spaces in the literature, describing trends in academic research, and analyzing conceptual and methodological aspects of studies.

2.2 Procedure

The systematic review was conducted using five academic databases, including the main journals in the fields of education, social science, and the humanities. These databases are: (i) Journal Storage, JSTOR ( https://www.jstor.org ); (ii) Educational Resource Information Center, ERIC ( https://eric.ed.gov ); (iii) Springerlink ( https://link.springer.com ); (iv) WorldWideScience ( https://worldwidescience.org ); and (v) Taylor & Francis Group ( https://www.tandfonline.com ). For each search engine, the keywords used were: “good citizen” and “good citizenship.” Additionally, each search engine was tested with other related concepts, such as “citizenship norms,” “citizenship identities,” or “citizen norms.” The results showed that articles containing these latter concepts represented no more than 10% of new articles. For this reason, we decided to concentrate on the two keywords described above.

Considering the importance of these key concepts, the search was limited to those articles that contain these terms in the title, abstract, and/or full text. Of the five search engines, only two had the full-text option in the advanced search and only one allowed searching by keywords, then all results were filtered manually. The search was conducted from May to July 2019, obtaining 693 academic articles.

The search was restricted to those academic articles written in English and published between 1950 and 2019, as a way to study contemporary conceptualizations of good citizenship. We discarded letters to the editor, responses to articles, and book reviews. As a result, we obtained 693 articles to which, based on a full-text review, we applied an additional criterion, excluding those articles about other subjects or from other disciplines. Included in the first search exclusively for having the word “citizenship” in the abstract, there is a wide range of articles including studies on biology, entomology, and film studies. Similarly, with this search strategy we retrieved articles on a related topic but not specifically about citizenship (e.g., leadership, public participation, social values, and immigration), articles on the concept of corporate or organizational citizenship, and articles on social studies in the school curriculum and its contribution to the education of citizens.

After applying the abovementioned selection criteria, we analyzed the abstracts of the articles to verify that they were related to the general objective of the study. As a result, all articles were selected that sought (directly or indirectly) to answer the question, “what is a good citizen?” Specifically, this involved incorporating studies that: (i) study or analyze citizen norms in conceptual, historical, political, educational, or social terms; (ii) generate models or analytic frameworks that define variables or dimensions that should make up the concept of a good citizen; (iii) explore factors on how good citizenship occurs, studying the educational, institutional, and cultural factors that would explain this phenomenon; (iv) relate the expectations (or definitions) of a good citizen with other dimensions or aspects of the political or social behavior of the subjects. The research team, which was comprised of two reviewers, held a weekly discussion (six sessions in total) during which the selection criteria were discussed and refined. This analysis resulted in the selection of a total of 120 articles (see list in Appendix A ).

2.3 Analytical Strategy

The data collected in a systematic review may allow for a wide variety of studies, but the analysis depends on the purpose and nature of the data. Given that the review included quantitative and qualitative studies, as well as both theoretical and demonstrative essays, such heterogeneous literature does not allow for statistical analysis. As a result, the recommended methodology is to carry out a narrative synthesis and an analysis that focuses on relationships between different characteristics and the identification of gaps (Grant and Booth 2009 ; Petticrew and Roberts 2006 ).

The narrative synthesis is a process that allows for extracting and grouping the characteristics and results of each article included in the review (Popay et al. 2006 ), and can be divided into three steps: (i) categorization of articles; (ii) analysis of the findings within each category; and (iii) synthesis of the findings in the selected studies (Petticrew and Roberts 2006 ). The first step towards the narrative synthesis consisted of reading, coding, and tabulating the selected documents in order to describe their main characteristics. A set of categories was designed to classify documents according to four dimensions: general characteristics, purpose, methodology, and results.

To analyze these categories, we transformed data into a common numeric rubric and organized it for thematic analysis, using the techniques proposed by Popay et al. ( 2006 ). The first category was used to summarize the quantity and characteristics of the published studies, while the thematic analysis focused on systematically identifying the main, recurrent, and/or most important concepts of good citizenship.

3 The Concept of Good Citizenship in Academia

Despite being a topic of interest for several decades, academic production on good citizenship tends to be concentrated in the second decade of the 21st century. Since 2009, there has been an explosive increase in the number of scientific papers published on this topic (Fig. 1 ). Although an important part of this growth may be due to the global pressures of academic capitalism to publish in academic journals (Slaughter and Rhoades 2009 ), it could also be the case that academic communities have cultivated a growing interest in studying this issue.

Academic papers by year of publication

Although few in number, the earliest articles published represent a landmark for the discussion. Thus, for example, the text of Almond and Verba ( 1963 ), which analyzes through interviews the perceptions of individuals in communities in five countries (United States, United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, and Mexico) and highlights their different participation profiles, has been repeatedly cited in the discussion with 263 references (as of August 2019), according to Google Scholar. Another classic text is Ichilov and Nave ( 1981 ), which aims at understanding the different dimensions of citizenship by surveying young Israelis. To this end, it generates the following five criteria, which have been widely used in academic discussions: (i) citizenship orientation (affective, cognitive, or evaluative); (ii) nature of citizenship (passive or active); (iii) object of citizenship (political or non-political); (iv) source of demand (mandatory or voluntary); and (v) type of guidance (support principles or behavior).

The selected articles are geographically concentrated in two aspects: by institutional affiliation and by the location of their studies. Considering the institutional affiliation of the authors, 32.77% of the articles were produced in the United States, a figure that rises to more than 60% when the countries of Western Europe and Australia are included. This bias is maintained, although to a lesser extent, when analyzing the countries where the studies were carried out. Moreover, more than 50% of the studies were carried out in the United States, England, and the democracies of Western Europe. Africa (4.24%) and Latin America (2.54%) were the regions least represented in the studies. These characteristics, which tend to be representative of global academic production in the social sciences (Connell 2007 ), may encourage certain notions of good citizenship that are anchored in Anglo-Saxon traditions, such as the liberal conception of citizenship studied by Peled ( 1992 ), or more recently, the conception of active citizenship (Ke and Starkey 2014 ), both of which have had an important influence on academic discussion about good citizenship.

Finally, the third characteristic of academic production is related to the multiple research fields and diverse purposes of the studies that deal with the concept of good citizenship. Research on good citizenship is published in multiple disciplines. Of the articles included in the review, 82.29% are concentrated in three disciplines: education, political science, and sociology. However, there are also articles associated with journals of history, philosophy, anthropology, and law. Additionally, we identified six main objectives from the articles reviewed (Table 1 ). The most common objectives are related to bottom-up research, which seeks to gather information on how diverse populations understand good citizenship, and top-down research, which seeks to conceptualize and/or define the idea of good citizens based on conceptual, historical, or political analysis. In addition, there are a wide variety of studies that seek to explain good citizenship, as well as studies that use the idea of a good citizen to explain other behaviors, skills, or knowledge. In other words, in addition to being multidisciplinary, research on good citizenship has multiple purposes.

In sum, although the academic discussion on good citizenship has been mainly developed during the last two decades in the most industrialized Western countries, the academic research is a field of ongoing and open debate.

4 Understanding the Meaning of “Good Citizenship”

As an academic field with a lively ongoing discussion, the notion of good citizenship is associated with different sets of ideas or concepts. Some keywords were repeated at least three times in the articles reviewed (Table 2 ). Only those articles that used a keyword format were included. The most frequent concepts are related to education, norms, social studies, political participation, and democracy.

This indicates that, first, studies tend to associate good citizenship with civic norms and citizen learning, highlighting the formative nature of the concept. Second, studies that associate good citizenship with other dimensions of citizenship (such as knowledge or civic attitudes) or contemporary global problems (such as migration) are comparatively scarcer.

Another way to approach the concept of good citizenship is by analyzing the definitions proposed by the authors in the articles studied. Most of the articles propose characteristics or aspects of good citizenship (in 43.8% of the cases) that, instead of creating new definitions, are often based on existing political, non-political, liberal, or philosophical concepts. In this regard, many papers define good citizenship based on specific behaviors. In contrast, other authors (18.6%) refer to citizenship rules when it comes to voting or participating in politics, thereby seeking to relate the concept of the good citizen with a specific civic attitude—participation in elections. Finally, a large group of studies define good citizenship in terms of the values, virtues, or qualities of a good citizen (22.6%). Within the group of studies that propose new definitions, it is possible to identify two main categories: studies that propose types of citizenship, such as Dalton ( 2008 ), distinguishing between “duty” and “engaged” citizenship, and works, such as Westheimer and Kahne ( 2004 ), which differentiate between “personal responsible citizenship,” “justice-oriented citizenship,” and “participatory citizenship.”

Finally, the meaning of good citizenship can be analyzed by studying the variables used in the studies. Among the quantitative studies included in the review, only 28.3% use international surveys such as ICCS, the Center for Democracy and Civil Society (CDACS), the International Social Survey Programme (ISSP), the United Citizenship, Involvement, Democracy (CID) Survey, and the European Social Survey (ESS). Each of these surveys contained a slightly different definition of good citizenship and the variables used to measure the concept (Table 3 ).

In general, the indicators used to measure citizenship in the different surveys share certain similarities. Variables associated with rules (such as obeying the law or paying taxes) are present in all surveys. Additionally, variables related to participation also have an important presence, especially (although not only) related to voting in national elections. To a lesser extent, surveys include variables related to solidarity (supporting people who are worse off than yourself) as well as attitudes related to critical thinking and civic culture (knowing the history of the country, thinking critically).

5 Discussion and Conclusions

The concept of good citizenship can be considered an umbrella term, which includes ethical, political, sociological, and educational aspects and discussions about who qualifies as a citizen and how they should act. The systematic review has shown that good citizenship is broadly defined, although these notions are mainly valued in Western countries with comparatively higher income levels.

For this reason, the definition of good citizenship used is, in large part, highly dependent on the research objective of the academic endeavor. In our case, the analysis is based on ICCS 2016, which defines good citizenship in relation to notions such as conventional citizenship, social movement citizenship, and personal responsibility citizenship (Köhler et al. 2018 ). The variables included in ICCS 2016 are related to the three main dimensions of good citizenship: normative, active, and personal. These three components of good citizenship have been essential in the academic discussion in the last seven decades, constituting the central corpus of the concept, although this definition does not incorporate current discussions on good citizenship, which focus, for example, on the notion of global citizenship (Altikulaç 2016 ) or the idea of digital citizenship (Bennett et al. 2009 ). These latter concepts are part of the ongoing debate on good citizenship, although it seems that more work is needed to better understand how these notions of citizenship are related to the ways in which individuals or groups in society relate to power and exercise it to shape the public sphere.

This systematic review has mapped the academic discussion to date on good citizenship. However, despite its usefulness, this review has a number of limitations. Firstly, it summarizes and analyzes the academic discussion, ignoring the gap between the scientific debate on good citizenship and the social discussion related to this subject. Secondly, it focuses on English-language literature, which may result in a bias towards publications produced in Western countries. In spite of these limitations, the review allows us to study the process of defining the concept of good citizenship, and to identify the main debates related to this notion, which is the central focus of this book.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank their research sponsors, the Center for Educational Justice ANID PIA CIE160007, as well as the Chilean National Agency of Research and Development through the grants ANID/FONDECYT N° 1180667, and ANID/FONDECYT N° 11190198.

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Cristóbal Villalobos & María Jesús Morel

Center UC for Educational Transformation, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile

Ernesto Treviño

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Correspondence to Cristóbal Villalobos .

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Center for Educational Justice, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile

Centro de Medición MIDE UC, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile

Diego Carrasco

Centre for Political Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium

Ellen Claes

University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Kerry J. Kennedy

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Villalobos, C., Morel, M.J., Treviño, E. (2021). What Is a “Good Citizen”? a Systematic Literature Review. In: Treviño, E., Carrasco, D., Claes, E., Kennedy, K.J. (eds) Good Citizenship for the Next Generation . IEA Research for Education, vol 12. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-75746-5_2

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Good citizenship is a cornerstone of a healthy and thriving society. In this essay, we will explore the characteristics that make up a good citizen and how these attributes can be harnessed to promote both personal growth and social progress.
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Discursive Essay on Duties of a Good Citizen 500+ words for kids and students in English. A good citizen has to imbibe many qualities. The fact that he has some duties and responsibilities to bear, is true. But at the same time, he also enjoys some rights and privileges as a citizen of a free state.
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The first essay is a long essay on the Good Citizen of 400-500 words. This long essay about Good Citizen is suitable for students of class 7, 8, 9 and 10, and also for competitive exam aspirants. The second essay is a short essay on Good Citizen of 150-200 words.
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A good citizen is a socially responsible individual. They contribute to society by volunteering, helping others, and working towards the betterment of the community. They are environmentally conscious and strive to protect and preserve natural resources.
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Being a good citizen is not just a superficial label that a person can be proud of. It is about having a sense of responsibility towards the society that we live in and for the world we will leave behind. Being a good citizen is more than just voting every year. It’s about being an active citizen.
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CPL's James Piltch asked people all over the US what it means to be a good citizen. "We don't agree on everything—but we do agree on enough that we can work together to start to heal our civic culture and our country."
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A good citizen is a person who does their best to make their country a better place. They respect the laws, rights, and freedoms of their country. They also care about the well-being of others in their community.
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Good Citizenship. Vote and engage actively in local politics, staying up-to-date on issues. Respect your country's laws and pay your taxes. Conserve resources and keep your community clean and green. Support local farms, businesses, and tradespeople in your community. Accept, tolerate, and learn from other beliefs, opinions, and perspectives.
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Incorporating these 20 essential qualities and actions, from informed voting to ethical behavior, every individual can significantly contribute to the strength and cohesion of their community, exemplifying the true essence of good citizenship.
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The concept of “good citizenship” has long been part of discussions in various academic fields. Good citizenship involves multiple components, including values, norms, ethical ideals, behaviors, and expectations of participation. This chapter seeks to...