Understanding the 7th Principle: Government’s Role in Protecting Equal Rights
In the book “The 5000 Year Leap” by W. Cleon Skousen, the 7th Principle outlines a fundamental philosophy of governance from the perspective of the American Founding Fathers: “The proper role of government is to protect equal rights, not provide equal things.” This principle emphasizes a philosophy where the government’s primary function is to safeguard the equal rights of all citizens rather than attempting to equalize all aspects of their lives or material possessions.
The Philosophical Foundation
Skousen, through his interpretation of the Founding Fathers’ intentions, argues that the government’s role should not extend into the realm of redistributing wealth or resources to ensure material equality. Instead, its duty is to ensure that each individual’s natural rights—life, liberty, and property—are equally protected under the law. This was seen as a direct counter to the European models of government at the time, which often aimed at “equalizing” wealth through state intervention.
- Natural Rights: According to Skousen, the Founders believed in the concept of natural rights, which are inherent and inalienable, bestowed by a Creator rather than by government. This belief is rooted in the idea that these rights cannot be justly abridged by any human authority unless through due process.
- Government Overreach: The principle warns against government overreach, suggesting that once government begins to provide “equal things”, it might lead to an erosion of individual freedoms. Skousen cites the Founders’ caution that if government can take from the rich to give to the poor, it could also take from those it previously aided, thereby undermining the very notion of equal rights.
Historical Context and Application
- Founders’ Perspective: The Founders were influenced by thinkers like John Locke, who advocated for life, liberty, and property as natural rights that government should protect. They feared that government involvement in welfare could lead to dependency and corruption, both in the government and among the citizenry. This is reflected in the early American stance against federal involvement in public welfare, as highlighted by Skousen.
- The Constitution: The U.S. Constitution, in essence, is a document designed to limit government power in order to protect these rights. It establishes checks and balances to ensure that no single branch can dominate and infringe upon the rights of individuals. This aligns with the principle of limiting government to the protection of rights rather than the provision of goods.
Modern Implications
- Debate on Government Role: In contemporary society, this principle sparks debate, particularly around issues like social welfare, healthcare, and education funding. Critics argue that without government intervention, true equality of opportunity cannot be achieved due to systemic inequalities. However, proponents of Skousen’s view might assert that government’s focus should remain strictly on rights protection, promoting personal responsibility and local solutions for broader social issues.
- Education and Virtue: Skousen also connects this principle to broader societal issues, suggesting that a morally and educationally robust citizenry is essential for maintaining a republic where government does not overstep its bounds. Education in the principles of liberty and virtue is seen as crucial to sustaining this balance.
Conclusion
The 7th Principle from “The 5000 Year Leap” by W. Cleon Skousen serves as a reminder of the original intent behind the American governmental structure—to protect the equal rights of individuals rather than to ensure material equality. This principle continues to influence debates on the role of government in modern America, where the balance between individual rights and collective welfare remains a contentious issue. Understanding this principle not only provides insight into the philosophical underpinnings of American governance but also invites ongoing discussion about the extent and limits of government intervention in citizens’ lives.
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