The classical foundations of the American Constitution : prevailing wisdom / David J. Bederman.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Bederman, David J., author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

United States. Constitution.

United States.

Political science--Greece--History.

Political science.

Greece.

History.

Constitutional history--United States.

Constitutional history.

United States--Politics and government--1783-1789.

Politics and government.

United States--Intellectual life--18th century.

Intellectual life.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (xiii, 337 pages) : digital, PDF file(s)

Place of Publication:

Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 2008.

System Details:

text file

PDF

Summary:

The framers of the American Constitution were substantially influenced by ancient history and classical political theory, as exemplified by their education, the availability of classical readings, and their inculcation in classical republican values. This volume explores how the framing generation deployed classical learning to develop many of the essential structural aspects of the Constitution: federalism, separation of powers, a bicameral legislature, independent courts, and the war and foreign relations powers. Also examined are very contemporary constitutional debates, for which there were classical inspirations, including sovereign immunity, executive privilege, line-item vetoes, and the electoral college. Combining techniques of intellectual history, classical studies, and constitutional interpretation, this book makes a unique contribution to our understanding of contemporary constitutionalism.

Contents:

The framers' classical education and world view

Classical political models and the founders

Constitution-making and ancient history

Modern resonances

The classical constitution.

Notes:

Title from publisher's bibliographic system (viewed on 05 Oct 2015).

Other Format:

Print version:

ISBN:

9780511511486

Access Restriction:

Restricted for use by site license.