Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Michael Nietzel, former college president, writes on higher educationMay 14, 2026, 06:00am EDT --:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more. The Unive...

Joshua Dunn and William Lyons  |  Guest columnists Show Caption Many Americans lack basic civic knowledge, such as the existence of their own state's constitution. A decline in civic education is linked to increased political polarization, incivility, and negative partisanship. Research sugges...