Overview
In recent years, the Constitution has become a source of political controversy between conservatives and progressives. While the right defends our founding document, the left argues that itās an antiquated plan of government that goes against basic principles of democratic sovereignty.
Ā
Whatās missing from this debate is an appreciation for the Constitutionās purpose. What kind of government were the founders trying to achieve?
Ā
In his new book, Democracy or Republic? The People and the Constitution, Jay Cost provides insight into that question. He argues that the foundersā vision was for a republic, not a democracy.
Ā
In both types of government, the citizens have the power to rule, but republics go further than this. A republic, as Abraham Lincoln put it, is a government āof the people, by the people, for the people.ā But in a simple democracy, the majority can rule for the good of themselves, rather than the whole community. How do you place the people in charge without creating a democratic tyranny? By the time of the American Revolution, nobody in the history of the world had yet answered this question.
Ā
But Americaās Founding Fathers did just that, and the Constitution reflects their ingenious solutionāthe idea of consensus. They created a government that would take action not because a narrow and fleeting majority demands it, but because a large, broad, and considered coalition of the people has found common cause with one another. This reflects the true opinion of the people, not just a faction that is temporarily in power. That is how government of the people becomes government for the people.
Ā
America, then, is not merely a democracy. It is something greater. It is a republic, built on the ideal of consensus. And while our country today has many problems, consensus remains the best way to solve them. Far from being a liability for the United States, the Constitution is still its greatest asset.
This book title, Democracy or Republic? (The People and The Constitution), ISBN: 9780844750521, by Jay Cost, published by AEI Press (October 1, 2024) is available in paperback. Our minimum order quantity is 25 copies. All standard bulk book orders ship FREE in the continental USA and delivered in 4-10 business days.
Unlike Amazon and other retailers who may also offer Democracy or Republic? (The People and The Constitution) books on their website, we specialize in large quantities and provide personal service, from trusted, experienced, friendly people in Portland, Oregon. We offer a Price Match Guarantee, and QuickQuote form, to make purchasing quick and easy.
Prefer to work with a human being when you order Democracy or Republic? (The People and The Constitution) books in bulk? Our Book Specialists are standing by Monday-Friday 8-5 PST, ready to help!