Civic Knowledge and Responsibilities

Sal Khan introduces a course on US Government and Civics, emphasizing the importance of understanding democracy, civil rights, and political participation. The course covers the foundations of American democracy, the interactions among government branches, civil liberties, citizenship obligations, political ideologies, and modern topics. The goal is to equip learners with knowledge to actively participate in democracy.

Why is it important for citizens to be informed about government and civics?

• To ensure a functioning democracy

• To increase personal wealth

• To travel internationally

• To avoid paying taxes

What is a key characteristic of modern democracy that began with American democracy?

• Direct rule by citizens

• Monarchical governance

• Representative democracy

• Oligarchic control

What is a common misconception about democracy's origins?

• It was invented in the 20th century

• It originated in the Middle Ages

• It began with the ancient Greeks

• It started with the Romans

What is the purpose of checks and balances in the US government?

• To increase the power of the executive branch

• To ensure one branch has all the power

• To maintain balance between the branches

• To eliminate the judicial branch

Which document is crucial in protecting civil liberties in the United States?

• The Federalist Papers

• The Declaration of Independence

• The Bill of Rights

• The Articles of Confederation

What is a modern interpretation of civil rights?

• Rights that are only historical

• Rights that apply to all citizens equally

• Rights that change with technology

• Rights only for the wealthy

What is one obligation of citizenship mentioned in the course?

• Owning property

• Voting in elections

• Paying for education

• Traveling abroad

How can understanding political ideologies benefit citizens?

• By allowing them to travel freely

• By enabling informed voting

• By helping them avoid taxes

• By making them more popular

What is one way citizens can participate in democracy?

• By not paying taxes

• By avoiding elections

• By engaging in political discussions

• By ignoring political news

What is one benefit of learning about US Government and Civics?

• Becoming more popular at social events

• Gaining wealth quickly

• Traveling without restrictions

• Avoiding civic duties