The American Constitution

The American Constitution

The American constitution contains the ideologies adopted by the founders and early leaders of the United States. Different scholars have varying views concerning the American Constitution and its effectiveness. John Locke argued that natural rights, like life, liberty, and owning property, are mandatory. Locke felt that all American citizens should access these fundamental rights voluntarily because they are unchallengeable. Besides, Locke believed that social contracts should exist between people and the government. Such thoughts imply that citizens should agree with the government on the most effective ways of protecting natural rights. Charles Montesquieu had different opinions concerning natural laws, citizens, and the government’s role in protecting its people. Montesquieu argued that the government acts as the institution that maintains law and order, political freedom, and controls property ownership. Montesquieu’s arguments reveal that people fear to break the law or engage in war. Therefore, Locke and Montesquieu have different views concerning natural rights and a democratic government’s role.

Locke’s ideas seem relevant in the twenty-first century when democratic governance remains significant and pertinent. For instance, Locke describes a real democracy where the government works to protect citizens’ rights. In this case, a democratically elected government has a primary mandate of ensuring that all people enjoy their rights. Instead of creating unnecessary fear among the citizens, a self-ruled government should establish systems that protect fundamental rights. However, Montesquieu seems to have a misinformed perception of real democracy. For instance, Montesquieu considers the government an institution that oppresses citizens through inferior political policies and ideologies. The strategy leads to mass violation of human liberties.