Question

The U.S. government system was designed as a republic based on the principles of representative democracy. Prior to the start of the American Revolution, the American revolutionaries agreed on core principles that necessitated the colonies’ independence from the British monarchy. Four core principles on which the founders agreed were liberty, equality, representation, and limited government.

Respond to ONE of the following in a minimum of 175 words:



1.

(A) Give three examples of the core principles reflected in the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. (B) Discuss one principle that you still see reflected in our country today and one you think is being neglected or is absent.



2.

Do you think the revolutionary generation would be disappointed in America today? Why or why not? Use at least one quotation from the readings to support your claim and focus on the core principles.

Answer 1

The U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights reflect the core principles of liberty, equality, and representation, with the current strength of representation and potential weakening of limited government in the United States today.

Step-by-step explanation:

The U.S. government system, which combines the principles of a republic and representative democracy, reflects the core principles agreed upon by the founders. These core principles are evident in the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. First, the principle of liberty is illustrated by the First Amendment, which guarantees freedoms concerning religion, expression, assembly, and the right to petition. Second, the principle of equality can be seen in the Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause, which asserts that states must provide equal protection under the law to all persons. Third, the principle of representation is embodied by the establishment of a bicameral legislature in Article I of the Constitution, which provides the mechanism for citizens to elect their representatives.

Currently, the principle of representation remains robust in the United States, as citizens continue to vote for their elected officials in local, state, and federal elections. However, the principle of limited government seems to be facing challenges. The growing power of the executive branch and concerns about government surveillance and privacy intrusions suggest a potentially eroding commitment to the principle that government should have defined and restricted powers.