ABSTRACT
Citizenship in a society governed by the rule of law affords civil rights and liberties. It also requires obligations to respect the principle of the rule of law, and all that respect for the law entails in the maintenance of democratic norms. This is especially true in the midst of a pandemic. Aspects of civic republicanism are presented as a challenge to libertarian ideals. Social distancing as an ethical practice that reflects an awareness of the needs of fellow citizens in a public health emergency have implications for the practice of civic engagement. This holds for mask wearing and inoculation as well.
