The Dying Citizen by Victor Davis Hanson Summary

The Dying Citizen analyzes the decline of American citizenship, arguing that progressive elites, globalization, and identity politics undermine traditional civic rights and responsibilities. Hanson contends that citizenship is being replaced by tribal allegiances and bureaucratic control, eroding national sovereignty and individual autonomy. The book blends historical analysis with contemporary political critique.

This book appeals to conservatives, political science students, and readers interested in U.S. governance trends. It’s particularly relevant for those concerned about nationalism vs. globalism, immigration policy, or the role of citizenship in modern democracies. Critics of progressive ideology may find Hanson’s arguments validating.

The book polarizes readers: supporters praise its incisive critique of elitism and globalization, while critics call it overly pessimistic and lacking constructive solutions. Its value depends on alignment with Hanson’s conservative perspective and interest in provocative cultural commentary.

Key themes include:

• Erosion of citizenship: How bureaucratic overreach and globalization diminish individual rights.
• Tribalism: The rise of identity politics over shared national identity.
• Elitism: Progressive elites’ disconnect from middle-class values.
  Hanson frames these issues as existential threats to American democracy.

Hanson argues globalization weakens national sovereignty by prioritizing international institutions and corporate interests over citizens. He claims this creates a “rootless elite” detached from local communities, accelerating the decline of civic participation.

The book condemns progressive initiatives like open borders, affirmative action, and climate agreements as tools to centralize power away from citizens. Hanson alleges these policies fuel dependency on government and erode constitutional principles.

Hanson draws parallels between modern America and ancient Rome/Greece, citing classical precedents for citizenship erosion. His military history expertise informs critiques of defense policy and national identity.

“Citizenship is not a passport or a check from the government but a shared commitment to a common culture and mutual responsibility.”

This line encapsulates Hanson’s view of citizenship as active participation, not passive entitlement.

Critics argue Hanson oversimplifies complex issues, dismisses systemic inequality, and offers few actionable solutions. Some reviewers call the tone “embittered” and overly partisan.

Unlike his military histories (Carnage and Culture), this book focuses on contemporary socio-political decay. It shares themes with Mexifornia (2003), which critiques immigration policy’s impact on California.

Ongoing debates about nationalism, populism, and institutional trust keep Hanson’s arguments pertinent. The 2024 U.S. election cycle and global tensions amplify its themes.

For readers interested in citizenship critiques:

• Why Liberalism Failed by Patrick Deneen
• The Once and Future Worker by Oren Cass
• Political Tribes by Amy Chua
  These works explore overlapping themes of cultural fragmentation and governance.