Learning how to be a citizen

In many cases, Americans are struggling to understand what is happening in the country. Most confounding is the role of the various departments and agencies in the functioning of government.

Agencies seem at odds, departments seem over-reaching and political appointees seem independent.

On top of this, Congress is unable to conduct important business and is becoming more divided along party lines. The president is at odds with both elected and appointed leaders.

Democracy is neither pretty nor the most efficient. It can be messy. It can get bogged down. It can pander to special interests rathe...