Question

Which of the following is an example of an American citizen’s obligation, or duty?

A. Understanding how laws are made
B. Attending court when summoned
C. Voting in elections to elect local candidates
D. Running for public office when qualified

Answer 1

The obligation or duty of an American citizen mentioned in the options is to attend court when summoned, which is a legal requirement often referred to as jury duty.

Step-by-step explanation:

An American citizen's obligation, or duty, is to attend court when summoned, as in option B. Voting in elections, while critically important, is considered a right and a civic responsibility, not a legal obligation. The same can be said about running for public office; it’s a right that one has when qualified. However, attending court when summoned, often referred to as jury duty, is a legal responsibility for all eligible citizens. Failing to do so can result in legal consequences. The act of serving on a jury is an integral part of the judicial system and is directly related to U.S. citizens having the right to a trial by jury. Citizens must fulfill this duty to uphold the legal process and ensure the rights of their fellow citizens are protected in court. Civic responsibilities also include being informed and paying attention to issues, voting, and participating in civic groups, but these are not legal obligations.

Answer 2

The American citizen's obligation mentioned is attending court when summoned. This duty is a legal requirement as part of maintaining the judicial system. Voting is a critical civic responsibility but not a legal obligation.

Step-by-step explanation:

An example of an American citizen’s obligation, or duty, is B. Attending court when summoned. This is a legal requirement for all U.S. citizens who are eligible jurors. It is a part of civic responsibilities essential to maintain the judicial system and uphold the right to a fair trial. On the other hand, while voting in elections to elect local candidates is an important civic responsibility, and a critical aspect of participating in the democratic process, it is considered a right rather than a legal obligation. Other forms of participation, such as running for public office or understanding how laws are made, are opportunities available to citizens to engage more deeply in the civic life, but they are not mandated duties.

Civic responsibilities such as obeying the law and paying taxes are obligations that apply to all residents, citizens or not, and are foundational to the functioning of society.