In the beginning of this political experiment, civics education was as focused on personal self-government as on political self government. The "Pursuit of Happiness" was understood as a virtuous pursuit, a way of building a strong moral compass to guide one through the passions of the moment. For instance, Article 6 in the New Hampshire State Constitution calls upon morality and piety as the best security for a free society. To further that end, school children studied ancient moral philosophy and scripture, wrestling with the big questions of what does it mean to be human.

We'll consider the role of virtue in current civics programs and how we might restore the creative and moral process of self-governance to our political life.

This program is supported by the New Hampshire Humanities Council.