Limiting Government with Constitutions

What is a Constitution? A constitution is a plan, outline, or framework of government. Constitutions are often needed to provide legitimacy to a government. Why would a government need a constitution?

A Constitution as a Social Contract How could a constitution be a form of a social contract? A constitution defines the relationship of government to the citizens.

How could a constitution support Locke’s views on government? A constitution could be used to place limits on government. A constitution can say what a government can and cannot do. How can a constitution prevent a government from being unlimited?

How were Montesquieu’s ideas used in constitutions? Many constitutions outline separation of powers between different branches of government. What are the three branches in our government? Legislative, Executive, and Judicial

Many constitutions also include checks and balances.

Separation of Powers Another way governmental powers are shared is with a system of federalism. In the United States, there are federal, state, and local governments. How might citizens benefit from a federal system of government?

General Will of the People Many constitutions require citizens to elect and serve as representatives in government. Decisions are made by majority rule (popular sovereignty). This means citizens have to hold each other accountable. What philosopher wrote of general will and majority rule?

Types of Constitutions Many constitutions are written (the United States). They can also be a collection of traditions, legal rulings and documents. This is called an “unwritten” constitution (England). Much of the United States Constitution was based on England’s constitution. How?

Types of Constitutions Not all constitutions are legitimate. Some governments ignore the guidelines set forth (the Soviet Union).

Bill of Rights A bill of rights is a document that protects the rights of the people. How did Locke and Voltaire influence the United States Bill of Rights?