Philosopher, Martha Nussbaum asks, “What makes some societies not only more tolerant of religious and cultural diversity than others, but able to foster respect for difference as a consequence of their understanding of civic freedom?”

She believes that societies that derive the notion of nationhood from political ideals and constitutional arrangements to support them are more likely to be among those societies mentioned above than those societies that develop as ethnically homogenous ones.

Those societies that embrace a Socratic culture where everyone participates, questions and critically thinks are those societies that value social justice, diversity and act peacefully to resolve conflict.  Including and acting for all, being open to the cultures of others, understanding the impact of inequality and discrimination are the tenants of civic and global citizenship.

Global citizenship is based on the premise that each person should choose and shape his/her own future.  By promoting positive values and responsible attitudes, global knowledge, transferable skills and a willingness to act for the benefit the whole of human society and the environments in which people live, facilitators of learning and development will enhance the opportunities for this to occur.

By endorsing social rights and human justice, identity and cultural diversity, interdependence and globalization, peace building and sustainable futures, Global learning can shape citizens to take their place in a society that sits among those that Martha Nussbaum speaks of.