Understanding Civics and Power

The video discusses the importance of civics and power literacy, emphasizing the need to make civics engaging by focusing on the teaching of power. It highlights the problem of civic illiteracy and its consequences, advocating for cities as arenas for practicing power. The speaker provides global examples of civic engagement and introduces a project to create a curriculum for civic power, inviting participation to democratize democracy.

Why does the speaker believe civics is often perceived as boring?

• It is not relevant to modern life.

• It lacks practical applications.

• It is seen as virtuous but uninteresting.

• It is associated with complex legal terms.

What is the speaker's definition of power?

• The capacity to make others do what you want.

• The influence over public opinion.

• The ability to control resources.

• The authority to enforce laws.

What is a consequence of power illiteracy according to the speaker?

• More equitable distribution of resources.

• Greater transparency in government.

• Disproportionate influence by a few.

• Increased civic engagement.

What does the speaker suggest is necessary to address civic disengagement?

• Reimagining civics as the teaching of power.

• Increased funding for education.

• Stricter government regulations.

• More political parties.

Why does the speaker emphasize the city as an arena for practicing power?

• Cities have less political interference.

• Cities are where power dynamics are most visible.

• Local issues are easier to solve.

• Cities have more resources than national governments.

What example does the speaker give of civic engagement in Boulder, Colorado?

• A local arts festival.

• A new public transportation system.

• A community garden initiative.

• A publicly owned utility replacing a private power company.

What is the 'Machine' at the University of Alabama?

• A local business group.

• A sports team.

• A campus political organization.

• A student-run newspaper.

How does the speaker describe the current trend of localism?

• A retreat into insularity.

• A focus on traditional values.

• A networked and powerful movement.

• A temporary political trend.

What is the purpose of the Citizen University's curriculum?

• To provide legal training.

• To educate on civic power.

• To promote global citizenship.

• To teach financial literacy.

What exercise does the speaker invite the audience to try?

• Creating a new political party.

• Writing a future narrative of their city.

• Organizing a local protest.

• Developing a business plan.