The 26th Principle from “The 5000 Year Leap”: The Integral Role of Family in Society
In W. Cleon Skousen’s seminal work, “The 5000 Year Leap,” he outlines 28 principles that he believes were foundational to the success and prosperity of the United States. Among these, the 26th principle stands out for its emphasis on the family unit as the bedrock of societal strength. Skousen articulates this principle as, “the core unit which determines the strength of any society is the family; therefore, the government should foster and protect its integrity”.
The Family as Society’s Core
Skousen argues that the family serves not merely as a social convenience but as an essential institution for the moral, economic, and cultural well-being of a nation. He posits that strong, stable families are the primary source of well-adjusted, responsible citizens. This perspective aligns with the Founding Fathers’ views, who saw the family as a training ground for the virtues necessary for a free society, such as responsibility, integrity, and mutual respect.
Government’s Role in Protecting Family Integrity
The principle advocates for an active governmental role in supporting the family structure. This does not translate into government control or intrusion into family life but rather into policies and initiatives that bolster family stability. Skousen suggests:
- Economic Policies: Ensuring that economic frameworks support family units, possibly through tax policies or benefits that acknowledge the economic contributions of homemaking and child-rearing.
- Educational Support: Promoting education systems that strengthen family values and involve parents significantly in children’s education, reflecting the idea that a broad program of general education is crucial for a republic but should be rooted in family teachings.
- Legal Protections: Creating laws that protect familial bonds, like those concerning marriage, divorce, and child welfare, to ensure the family remains a cohesive unit.
Cultural and Moral Implications
Skousen’s perspective on family also touches on the cultural and moral fabric of society. He believes that a society with strong family units fosters environments where virtues and societal norms are passed down through generations, thus sustaining a moral order essential for the survival of republican governance. He warns against policies or cultural shifts that might undermine the family, suggesting that such shifts could lead to societal decay, echoing the sentiments of historical and political figures like Alexis de Tocqueville, who linked America’s greatness to its moral goodness.
Modern Relevance
In contemporary discussions, this principle resonates with debates over family policy, social welfare, and the role of government in personal life. Critics might argue that too much governmental involvement could infringe upon personal freedoms or that family structures have evolved beyond traditional models. However, Skousen’s principle encourages a supportive rather than a controlling role for the government.
The emphasis here is on fostering conditions where families can thrive without undue interference, ensuring that the cultural and moral education of children remains primarily within the family, supported by societal structures that recognize and uphold the family’s role.
Conclusion
W. Cleon Skousen’s 26th principle from “The 5000 Year Leap” underscores the family’s pivotal role in the health of a nation. By advocating for governmental policies that protect and enhance family integrity, Skousen aims to remind modern societies of the foundational values laid by America’s founders. While the application of this principle in today’s diverse and changing societal landscape might be debated, its core message—that a strong society is built on strong families—remains a compelling argument for considering family in all aspects of governance and policy-making.
References:
- Skousen, W. Cleon. “The 5000 Year Leap: A Miracle That Changed The World.” National Center for Constitutional Studies, 1981.