Principles and Virtues Lecture Notes

Introduction

The American Principles and Virtues are crucial in shaping the republic with ordered liberty and forming the conscience of the nation. They are rooted in the ideas of liberty and equality from the natural rights tradition of John Locke.

Natural Rights Tradition: Asserts that humans have inherent rights independent of governing power.
Purpose: To protect and advance freedom and opportunity, inspired the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights.
Self-Government: Principles bind diverse people and promote a healthy civil society.

Founding Principles Framework

Natural Rights & Foundations: Human rights exist independently of government.
Consent & Republican Government: Government legitimacy comes from the consent of the governed.
Limited Government: Government power is restricted to protect individual freedoms.
Constitutional/Auxiliary Precautions: Structures like checks and balances prevent abuse of power.
Bill of Rights: Protects individual liberties and rights.

Virtues Framework

The maintenance of republican government requires vigilance, being informed, and virtuous.

Civic Virtues

Courage: Taking constructive action despite fear, exemplified by Elizabeth Eckford.
Honor: Demonstrating good character, opposed by Benedict Arnold's dishonor.
Humility: Recognizing one's limitations, countered by Douglas MacArthur's hubris.
Integrity: Truthfulness and promise-keeping, shown by the Schechter Brothers.
Justice: Upholding fairness, as sought by Jourdon Anderson.
Moderation: Avoiding extremes, the opposite of "Boss" Tweed's immoderation.
Prudence: Applying wisdom to discern right actions, as George Washington did.
Respect: Defending equal rights and dignity, contrasted with contempt.
Responsibility: Acting on good judgment, exemplified by Alice Paul.

Corresponding Vices

Cowardice: Failing to act constructively due to fear.
Dishonor: Lacking integrity and acting deceptively.
Hubris: Excessive pride leading to downfall.
Self-Deception: Believing falsehoods that harm others.
Injustice: Applying unequal rules, harming others’ rights.
Immoderation: Excessive behavior lacking restraint.
Imprudence: Acting carelessly without wisdom.
Contempt: Disregarding others' rights and dignity.
Irresponsibility: Poor judgment harming trust.

Virtues & Vice Video Library

Clara Barton: Explores responsibility through narratives.
Elizabeth Eckford: Illustrates courage in civil society.
Benedict Arnold: Discusses dishonor's impact on society.
Aaron Burr: Examines hubris, differentiating ambition.
Huey Long: Highlights the importance of moderation.
Thomas Jefferson: Demonstrates prudence in leadership.
Schechter Brothers: Show integrity's role in society.
Dwight Eisenhower: Responsibility in leadership, shown through D-Day decisions.

These videos and narratives are part of the "Heroes and Villains" curriculum to teach civic virtues in classrooms.

Understanding American Principles and Virtues