Constitutional Principles
Additional Text
Separation of Powers
James Madison knew that a key challenge of maintaining just government was framing it in such a way that the government would be forced to control itself. How does a system of separated powers—and the checks and balances built into those separated powers—preserve liberty?
For further exploration:
Consent of the Governed
Perhaps the most fundamental constitutional principle is that just government power flows from the consent of the governed. How does this principle, sometimes known as popular sovereignty, contrast with monarchical sovereignty?
For further exploration:
The Declaration of Independence
Program in Constitutionalism and Democracy at the University of Virginia
Republican Government
The only theoretical alternative to monarchy in the Founders’ day was republican government. Why did the Founders believe that republican government would correct the problems associated with a majority-rule democratic system? How does the Constitution put these principles in place?
For further exploration:
The Federalist and Anti-Federalist Debate on Diversity and the Extended Republic, written by Drs. Christopher Burkett and Patricia Dillon
Rule of Law
Citizens’ commitment to the rule of law is crucial for self-government. The process by which the Constitution was framed and ratified reflects the rule of law, and many of its protections ensure that the United States is, as John Adams explained, an empire of laws and not of men.
For further exploration
The Constitutional Convention as a Four-Act Drama, written by Dr. Gordon Lloyd
Religion in 18th Century America, written by Drs. Vincent Philip Muñoz and Maria Victoria Muñoz