In social studies literature, the recurring answer to questions regarding the ultimate professional goal of social studies educators has been the aim of fostering good citizenship. The problem is defining what constitutes good citizenship, and this concern is at the core of what divides social studies educators. In this article, the author…

Presents a theory from political science to serve as the unifying construct for the study of government and civics at the secondary level. Concludes with a series of assertions of what should guide the thinking related to the development of secondary level government and civics curriculum. Includes references. (CMK)