The end of Dagger

I really enjoyed the last chapter of Civic Virtues. In chapter 12, Dagger concludes his arguements about republican liberalism, and civic virtues. "Republican liberalism seeks to promote and cultivate, but not to maxime, certain virtues." He goes on to say that it is important to bring as many individuals to the same treshold, not maximize vritues in a group of few.
I found it very interesting to see his blending of virtues, and their different sources in society. Dagger incorporates different ideals, from classical to Christian virtues, and ends with a list of six vitues that republican liberalism should promote. He states that a republican liberal is one who : respects individual rights, values autonomy, tolerates different opinions and beliefs, plays fair, cherishes civic memory, and takes an active part in the life of the community.
Although these are important ideals, it is perhaps more important and interesting to see how they relate and work together. For example, Dagger explains that one of the reasons to tolerate those with whom one disagrees is because one hopes that they will do the same. This is directly tied to playing fair and reciprocity. Because these virtues are easily exercied together, it more appealing to strive and achieve this behavior.
Dagger further explains the importance of civil society. It is needed to serve as an intermediary between the public and private lives of citizens, and to help them incorporate one and the other. Dagger explains the importance of a civil society from a republican and liberal standpoint. On one hand, it is important to appreciate the rights and interests of others and their autonomy. On the other hand, a civil society must promote civic responsiblity and common good.

I would like to say (to Prof. McCrickerd), that I really like the order of books we have had. Especially because Dagger concluded his book by addressing the proliferation of "rights-talk".

"To appreciate rights is to understand that they are as valuable for the way they connect us to as for the way they protect us from one another."