Political Philosophy of the American Constitution

Dr. G. Lakshmi

Abstract: On the occasion of the American Independence Day, the Fourth of July (or July 4th), it is worth recalling the political philosophy of the American (or United States) Constitution which is a landmark document of the western world as well as liberal democratic countries. Though the United States Constitution and the American Declaration of Independence are two separate and distinct documents yet they are connected in spirit. The American Constitution, indeed, a bold experiment in democracy more than 200 years ago. It was an experiment of social, political, economic, and public opinion combined to create a new type of society governed by the rule of law. The Constitution resulted from months of debate among the convention delegates or representatives for the States. There are several key principles and ideas that influenced its drafting and continue to shape its interpretation. This article provides some of the main political philosophies reflected in the American Constitution, which is the oldest written national constitution in use.

Keywords: American Constitution, Republicanism, Separation of Powers, Checks and Balances, Natural Rights