The Bill of Obligations: The Ten Habits of Good Citizens

Richard Haass argues that while the United States faces external threats, the greatest danger comes from within. In this book, he contends that citizenship must be revised and expanded to address division and protect democracy. Though the Bill of Rights anchors the Constitution, many conflicts arise not from right versus wrong, but from competing rights. Haass proposes placing obligations alongside rights as a solution. He introduces ten obligations that redefine American citizenship and encourage commitment to fellow citizens, countering apathy, anger, and violence. Using civics, history, and political analysis, the book explores how Americans across the political spectrum can work together to contribute to and reshape the country's future.