Poli Sci 110: U.S. Constitution and Collective Action Problems

Introduction

• Topic: The U.S. Constitution and how it addresses collective action problems among states.
• Objective: Understand the constitution not just as a fundamental document, but as a solution to specific problems through compromise.

Collective Action Problems

• Definition: Occur when groups or nations would benefit from cooperation but short-term interests prevent it.
• Historical Context: The 13 states faced external threats & economic challenges.
• Examples:
  • Raising money for the Revolutionary War.
  • States imposing trade limits against each other.

Articles of Confederation

• Time Frame: Emerged in the mid-1770s.
• Characteristics:
  • Established a weak central government and Congress.
  • Congress could not raise taxes effectively or support the war.
  • Required unanimous agreement among states for changes.
• Problems:
  • Difficulty in raising funds and troops for the war.
  • States voluntarily contributed money and troops, leading to uneven support.
  • Example of troop support: New York gave 77%, while the Carolinas gave 26%.
  • Example of financial support: Georgia gave $0, New York gave 64%.

Emergence of a Stronger Central Government

• Need for Reform: Consensus on the weakness of the central government under the Articles.
• Collective Action Problems:
  • States had different levels of commitment and benefit from the war.
  • Foreign threats and internal disputes were not managed effectively.
• Illustration: Use of fish analogy to explain coordination issues.
• Shays' Rebellion: Reinforced the need for stronger central governance.

Constitutional Convention of 1787

• Location: Independence Hall, Philadelphia.
• Outcome: Constitution designed to solve collective action problems:
  • Established a stronger central government.
  • Gave Congress powers like taxation, national defense, and regulation of interstate commerce (enumerated powers).
• Article 1, Section 8: Lists specific powers to address collective action problems.
• Trade and Commerce:
  • Uniform weights and measures to facilitate trade.
  • Regulation of interstate commerce to prevent inter-state tariffs.

Ratification and Structure

• Process: 39 of 55 delegates signed; ratified by 9 states (New Hampshire being crucial).
• Government Structure: Established a bicameral Congress, President, and federal judiciary.
• Major Issues:
  • Representation in Congress.
  • Federal vs. state powers.
  • Addressing slavery.

Conclusion

• Significance: The Constitution as a solution to inter-state problems and as a foundation for U.S. governance.
• Final Thoughts: The convention's negotiations were done privately to facilitate effective outcomes.