The 18th Principle: The Importance of a Written Constitution
In the seminal work The 5000 Year Leap by W. Cleon Skousen, the 18th principle asserts that “The unalienable rights of the people are most likely to be preserved if the principles of government are set forth in a written constitution.” This principle underscores the significance of a formal, documented framework for governance, which serves as both a safeguard and a guide for the protection of individual rights in a democratic society.
Foundation in Historical Context
The concept of a written constitution was revolutionary at the time of America’s founding. Prior to the United States Constitution, many societies operated under unwritten laws or were subject to the arbitrary rule of monarchs. Skousen points out that the American experiment in self-governance was unique because it codified the principles of liberty and governance into a document that could not easily be altered by temporary majorities or despotic leaders. This is highlighted in Skousen’s discussion where he references the historical context of constitutional governance, noting that the Founding Fathers drew from Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke, who argued for the protection of natural rights through law rather than the whim of rulers.
Preservation of Unalienable Rights
The term “unalienable rights” refers to those rights inherent to all individuals, which include life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, as famously articulated in the Declaration of Independence. Skousen explains that these rights are best protected when government operates under clear, written rules that limit its power and ensure accountability. A written constitution establishes a legal baseline against which all government actions can be measured, preventing the gradual erosion of freedoms through incremental legislative changes or executive overreach.
Checks and Balances
One of the key mechanisms by which a written constitution preserves rights is through the system of checks and balances. Skousen elaborates on this in his book, detailing how the separation of powers among legislative, executive, and judicial branches creates a balance where no single branch can dominate the others, thus safeguarding individual liberties. This structural approach to government is meant to prevent tyranny and to ensure that each branch respects the constitutional limits placed upon it.
Educational and Cultural Impact
Skousen emphasizes that a written constitution not only serves as a legal document but also as an educational tool. By making the principles of government explicit, it educates citizens on their rights and the limitations of government, fostering a culture of vigilance and informed participation in civic life. This educational aspect is critical for maintaining a society where the populace actively engages in preserving their rights. The 5000 Year Leap also discusses how the Constitution’s clear stipulations help in teaching future generations the values upon which the nation was built.
Modern Implications
In contemporary times, the relevance of this principle is seen in debates over constitutional amendments, judicial interpretations, and legislative practices. Skousen argues that the written nature of the Constitution allows for a stable framework that can adapt through amendments rather than through unchecked governmental action. This ensures that any changes to the governance structure are deliberate, transparent, and reflective of the collective will of the people rather than individual or group interests.
Conclusion
The 18th principle from The 5000 Year Leap stresses that a written constitution is vital for maintaining the unalienable rights of citizens. It provides a concrete reference for governance, ensuring that the government operates within defined limits, thus protecting individual freedoms from the potential encroachments of power. Skousen’s exploration of this principle not only celebrates the wisdom of the Founding Fathers but also calls for vigilant stewardship of this document to ensure its principles continue to serve the cause of liberty in the modern age.
This article underscores why a written constitution remains a cornerstone of democratic societies, an enduring testament to the foresight of those who crafted the U.S. Constitution, ensuring that the rights it enshrines are not merely theoretical but practical and enforceable.
References:
- Skousen, W. Cleon. “The 5000 Year Leap: A Miracle That Changed The World.” National Center for Constitutional Studies, 1981.