The American System Of Government Has Historically Been Refe ✓ Solved

The American System Of Government Has Historically Been Referred To As

The American system of government has historically been referred to as an "experiment in democracy" that blends elements of thought on self-rule with historical and philosophical thought. (a) Describe two historical examples of self-rule or democratic rule from which the Framers of the US Constitution drew inspiration. Connect each example to one of these elements of American democracy. Voting and elections Limits on government power (b) Explain how Enlightenment philosophy influenced the Framers in their drafting of these key documents. The Declaration of Independence The US Constitution (c) Explain the purpose of government as accepted by the Framers, and identify one major influence on the development of that purpose.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

The United States is often referred to as an "experiment in democracy" because its system of government was designed to incorporate principles of self-rule, limited government, and individual rights. The Framers of the Constitution drew inspiration from various historical examples and philosophical ideas to shape this unique political framework. In this paper, two key historical examples of self-rule and democratic practices are explored, along with the influence of Enlightenment philosophy and the overarching purpose of government as envisioned by the Framers.

Historical Examples of Self-Rule and Democratic Inspiration

1. The English Magna Carta (1215)

The Magna Carta is a foundational document in the development of constitutional law and democratic principles. Signed in 1215, it limited the powers of the monarch and established the idea that even the ruler was subject to the rule of law. This treaty introduced the concept of due process and protection of individual rights, which directly influenced American ideas about limiting governmental power. The Framers looked to the Magna Carta as a symbol of the importance of establishing constraints on authority, reflecting their belief that no one, even the government, should be above the law. The principle of limiting government power was critical in shaping the Bill of Rights and shaping constitutional governance in America.

2. The Mayflower Compact (1620)

The Mayflower Compact was a pioneering self-governing agreement signed by Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower. It established a civil body politic and outlined the idea of self-rule through collective agreement and majority rule. As a proto-democratic document, it demonstrated the concept that citizens could create their own laws and govern themselves, which served as an inspiration for American democratic ideals. The Compact exemplifies direct self-governance and the importance of community participation—values that the Framers incorporated into the American system of representative democracy. This example underscores the early American commitment to self-determination and collective decision-making processes.

Enlightenment Philosophy and Its Influence

The Enlightenment, a philosophical movement that emphasized reason, individual rights, and scientific inquiry, profoundly influenced the Framers' ideologies. Thinkers like John Locke championed the concepts of natural rights—life, liberty, and property—and the idea that government’s primary role is to protect these rights. Locke's social contract theory posited that governments derive their authority from the consent of the governed and that citizens have the right to overthrow unjust rulers.

This Enlightenment thought shaped foundational American documents such as the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution. For example, Thomas Jefferson's Declaration explicitly references unalienable rights such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, echoing Locke's ideas. Additionally, the Constitution's system of checks and balances reflects Locke’s belief in limited government and the importance of separating powers to prevent tyranny.

The Purpose of Government According to the Framers

The Framers viewed the primary purpose of government as the protection of individual rights and the preservation of liberty. They believed that government should serve the people, particularly in safeguarding their natural rights against infringement by others or oppressive rulers. This philosophy was inspired by Enlightenment ideals, especially John Locke's political theories, which emphasized that legitimate government must be based on the consent of the governed and exist to serve the common good.

The development of this purpose was also influenced by historical experiences with tyranny and the desire to create a government that balanced authority with individual freedoms. The inclusion of mechanisms such as the Bill of Rights reflects their commitment to protecting civil liberties and ensuring that the government remains accountable to the people. Therefore, the purpose of government, as conceived by the Framers, was to establish a system that guarantees liberty, maintains order, and upholds justice.

References

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