The relationship between ethnic heritage and citizenship is explored in this paper. The author develops his analysis in four chapters. Chapter I examines levels of identity through which all individuals progress as they mature. These include identification with oneself, one's family, the extended family and ethnic group, the nation, and the world community. Education is seen to help in developing individuals' conscious awareness of their own identifications. Chapter II discusses concepts of ego-identity (self-image in relation to others) and ideology (value-influencing phenomena which connect individuals to their society). Interpretations of these concepts by Erik Erikson, K. Mannheim, and N. A. Murray are outlined and are used to generate a new concept of ethnic ideological themes. Ethnic ideological themes are the value orientations which are held in common by members of an ethnic group. Chapter III explores the concept of ethnic identity in relation to effects of immigration and interaction with resident native groups. The author notes the transformation of the melting pot theory to the theory of cultural pluralism (see SO 012 364), the phenomenon of alienation of new immigrant groups from native residents, and differing effects of immigrant status on first, second, third, and fourth generation immigrants. Chapter IV considers the concept of citizenship and its relation to education. Since the educational system helps shape an individual's identity, all Americans have the right to expect it to promote ethnic heritage awareness as well as awareness of citizenship responsibilities. (AV)