Citieznship Flashcards
Legal status
It is granted through descent, country of birth, marriage and naturalisation. The formal status is awarded by a country makes a person feel part of the country. Citizens have rights and responsibilities. There are tensions involved in exercising their rights as citizens. These rights are intended for the common good of citizens. Citizenship is not just being part of a country. It is more complex. Citizens have rights and responsibilities and these rights must be exercised with consideration. While we enjoy certain rights made available to us, we should also contribute towards the good of society through the responsibilities we are given. Rights to access education- we must be responsible enough for the right to attain an education Rights to national security- National service-responsibility of male citizens in Singapore, women can volunteer too. Different views on whether females should serve NS.
Sense of national identity
A sense of national identity comes from a shared belief that we belong to the same country. By sharing similarities with others from the same country, a person feels a sense of belonging towards the country. Common practices and common experiences help create a bond with fellow Singaporeans. EG: Love for common food, Singlish Many Singaporeans feel they can identify with a fellow SIngaporeans based on a common language, Singlish. Whenever we hear people speaking Singlish abroad, we will be able to identify them as Singaporeans. Having a sense of national identity contributes towards shaping citizenship in Singapore because by being able speak a common language that is easily understood mainly by Singaporeans only Singaporeans feel that we are special. The uniqueness binds us together, leading us to feel a part of the Singapore society and as such, citizens of Singapore.
Participation
By taking part, a person feels they have a role to play in the progress of the country. They feel an attachment towards the country. Citizens can contribute as individuals or through organised groups. Citizens contribute in areas they are passionate about, thus contributing towards greater ownership and commitment towards the causes they are involved in. EG: Benny Teo, former addict set up food chain, Eighteen Chefs. Employs ex-offenders and youths at risk. Food chain- for those who would like a change and turn over a new leaf -hope. Shapes citizenship as the participation by helping others will develop and strengthen an attachment towards Singaporeans and fellow Singaporeans.
