Should citizenship be automatic?

I am an American citizen; I was born in Tennessee almost 50 years ago to two wonderful parents who are also citizens. So I feel fortunate in my overall situation. In fact, that's one of the reasons I joined the Marine Corps.

My wife is of a slightly different view. While she feels fortunate to be an American citizen, she doesn't feel 'proud' to be an American, having been born here. That's a subtle yet distinct difference. So my question is this: Should full citizenship be automatic, or should someone born here (to two American parents) have to do something to be a full citizen?

pm