Understanding the 13th Principle: A Constitution Should Be Structured to Permanently Protect the People from the Human Frailties of their Rulers
In W. Cleon Skousen’s influential book, “The 5000 Year Leap,” one of the 28 principles of liberty articulated is the notion that “A Constitution Should be Structured to Permanently Protect the People from the Human Frailties of their Rulers.” This principle is rooted in the belief that even the best leaders are subject to human weaknesses such as greed, ambition, and corruption. Here, we delve into this principle, exploring its implications for governance and its reflection in the U.S. Constitution.
The Core of Principle 13
The essence of this principle is the acknowledgment that no individual, regardless of their virtues, is immune to the temptations of power. Skousen suggests that the Founding Fathers of the United States crafted the Constitution with this in mind, designing it to limit the power of any one branch of government through a system of checks and balances. This structure is intended to prevent any single entity from gaining too much control, thereby safeguarding the liberties of the citizens against potential tyranny or misuse of authority.
Historical Context and Constitutional Mechanisms
The U.S. Constitution was framed during a period when the recent experiences with British monarchy and the Articles of Confederation provided stark lessons on the dangers of unchecked power. The framers, influenced by thinkers like Montesquieu, who advocated for the separation of powers, sought to create a government where power was not only divided but distributed in such a way that each branch could check the others:
- Separation of Powers: The government was divided into three branches – legislative, executive, and judicial – each with distinct roles and capabilities. This separation helps ensure that no single branch can become tyrannical.
- Checks and Balances: Each branch has the ability to limit the powers of the other branches. For example, the President can veto legislation from Congress, but Congress can override this veto with a two-thirds majority.
Skousen points out that these mechanisms are not merely administrative but are fundamentally protective, aimed at preserving individual freedoms by mitigating the human tendencies towards power abuse.
Practical Application and Modern Relevance
The enduring relevance of this principle can be seen in how it influences contemporary governance:
- Judicial Review: The power of the judiciary to declare laws unconstitutional if they violate the Constitution is a direct application of this principle, ensuring that even legislative majorities cannot infringe upon constitutional protections.
- Impeachment Process: The ability of Congress to impeach and remove officials from office serves as a check on executive and judicial branches, safeguarding against corruption or misconduct.
In practice, this principle also underscores the importance of an engaged citizenry. Skousen emphasizes that for these constitutional protections to work, the people must remain vigilant, informed, and active in the political process.
Criticism and Debate
While this principle is celebrated for its foresight, it’s not without criticism. Some argue that the system can lead to gridlock, where checks become impediments to necessary governance. Others debate the extent to which the checks and balances have been effective in modern times, given the complexities of contemporary politics and the influence of lobbying and special interests.
Conclusion
The 13th principle from “The 5000 Year Leap” underscores the genius of the U.S. Constitution in providing a framework where the human frailties of leaders are not just acknowledged but systematically countered. This principle, as Skousen discusses, is vital for the preservation of liberty, ensuring that government remains a servant rather than a master of the people.
Understanding and upholding this principle is crucial as it calls for a continual reassessment of governance structures to ensure they serve their intended protective role in an evolving society.
References:
- Skousen, W. Cleon. “The 5000 Year Leap: A Miracle That Changed The World.” National Center for Constitutional Studies, 1981.