| ID | 090827 |
| Title Proper | Language of liberty and law |
| Other Title Information | James Wilson on America's written constitution |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Zink, James R |
| Publication | 2009. |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | Although contemporary Americans take it for granted that a "constitution" is a written document, written constitutions were almost unprecedented at America's founding. James Wilson, one of the most significant yet overlooked of America's founders, offers a comprehensive theory of America's written constitution. Wilson argues that the written-ness of the U.S. Constitution serves two essential functions. As an initial matter, it memorializes the primacy of liberty by announcing that the authority of government derives only from a free people. Perhaps more importantly, however, the written constitution uplifts and refines the character of its citizens, and thus helps to constitute a people. A review of Wilson's writings and speeches reveals how, even in a rights-centric political order, the written constitution helps to cultivate moderate and civic-minded citizens without diminishing the fundamental importance of individual rights. |
| `In' analytical Note | American Political Science Review Vol. 103, No. 3; Aug 2009: p442-455 |
| Journal Source | American Political Science Review Vol. 103, No. 3; Aug 2009: p442-455 |
| Key Words | Liberty ; Law - America ; Constitution - America ; Natural Rights ; America - Constitution Theory |