Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers' Favorite

Has citizenship lost its meaning and become a mere convenience or transactional tool? Sebastian Saviano reflects on a growing concern that American citizenship is being devalued. The Allegiance Paradox focuses primarily on the issue of dual nationality, questioning whether this inherently leads to divided loyalty and limited engagement with American society. Birth tourism now offers a means for foreigners to obtain American citizenship for their children, regardless of their place of residence. For those who qualify, it opens the door to higher education, wider international travel access, and the opportunity to mitigate political or economic uncertainty in their home countries. There is a legal ambiguity regarding the obligations of dual citizens, who may have no societal ties to America. This is a matter of moral and cultural concern. The author examines the original principles on which America was founded and provides timelines for landmark determinations relating to citizenship. Other countries have been much more explicit in terms of the eligibility, rights, and obligations of dual-nationality individuals, and manage the situation closely. The author points out that America has always been a nation of immigrants who took on citizenship willingly and with commitment, adopting a new national identity in the process. The digital age has since separated work from a physical presence. Clear policy guidelines are needed, but this may require an amendment to the constitution. Changes may be pending under the new Trump administration.

Sebastian Saviano argues that citizenship is a covenant. Allegiance binds citizens to one another and goes far beyond nationalism. It involves civic engagement in matters such as voting, community involvement, and even jury duty. The author points to the memory of those who died in service to their country as an example of loyalty and patriotism. He questions geographic citizenship in a world where work can be carried out in any location by digital nomads. Additionally, e-Residency is now recognized as legal in certain countries, while network citizenship is another emerging concept. Identities are no longer solid or tied to a specific location. A sense of community is lacking. The Allegiance Paradox reviews the legislative framework and relevant case law applicable to citizenship and outlines solutions. A foundation for reform would include rebuilding the civic contract, an ethical framework based on shared responsibility, and renewed allegiance. The book is pro-citizen, rather than anti-immigrant. It is a call for Americans to reassess their sense of identity. This is the first in the 4-part series and has been meticulously researched. A comprehensive glossary and informative appendices round off a comprehensive and fascinating study.