“A community is like a ship; everyone ought to be prepared to take the helm.”

Not complicating my response with maritime or common law comparisons, everyone ought to participate in the process from lay commentator to mayor / governor / president.

I'm not sure I agree with this quote,

Nice philosophical goal, but the "ought to" is being ignored: we need more appreciation for a sound education so as to "be prepared" to set and maintain a straight course as "everyone" pilots our ship of state

Allowing for a little creative license, the quote highlights that community members ought to consider themselves not just as 'passengers' but active members of the community.

The quote is on point, common sense. Every one on board is held responsible for each others lives, all on board are taught from an early age to take the helm, read the sky and sea, lest one fall overboard and none return to rescue ! " And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by " Our ship of state !
This common sense makes best sense if you were raised on the water !