Civic Literacy and the Rules of the Game: Why America Needs Educated Citizens

What happens when Americans no longer know the rules of their own democracy? In this episode of American Classroom, hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland tackle the growing crisis in civic literacy. Drawing from recent national studies, they reveal just how many Americans—especially young adults—struggle to answer basic questions about how their government works.Using the powerful analogy of American democracy as a game, they argue that if citizens don’t understand the rules—found in documents like the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence—they can’t fully participate, let alone protect the freedoms they enjoy.They also explore how shifting educational priorities, the rise of global citizenship, and the flood of misinformation on social media have contributed to this decline. Most importantly, they offer practical advice for parents, educators, and community members committed to raising informed, engaged citizens.If you believe freedom depends on understanding how it works, this episode is essential listening. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: US Chamber of Commerce Civic Literacy Study US Chamber of Commerce Civic Literacy Test Harvard Business Review Article on Civics and Business Thomas Jefferson Quote ACTA Study