Limited government is considered a significant human achievement, albeit precarious and not universally enjoyed.
Advocates of limited government oppose the concentration and arbitrary use of coercive power.
The system seeks a balance of power to protect rights while avoiding government overreach.
Foundational Principles
The American system is based on the truths that all men are created equal and endowed with rights such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Government derives its power from the consent of the governed and must be alterable if it becomes destructive.
The American Founders drew on historical examples to establish a system of delegated, enumerated, and limited powers.
Historical Context
The Founders were influenced by historical struggles for liberty, including the Declaration of Independence, Articles of Confederation, and U.S. Constitution.
Key ideas included division of power, federalism, checks and balances, and the right of citizens to resist government overreach.
Roots of Limited Government
Early roots trace back to ancient Hebrews and Greek philosophers, emphasizing higher law and the rule of law over mere will or power.
Important historical movements:
Struggle between church and state in medieval Europe, leading to concepts like the rule of law and federalism.
Growth of civil society in independent European cities, fostering personal liberty and market economies.
Codification of limits on monarchs through documents like the Magna Carta.
Key Movements and Documents
Various documents and movements reinforced the principles of limited government:
Magna Carta, Petition of Right, Bill of Rights, and American Founding documents.
Historical assertions of rights were not gifts but were meant to be defended, even by force.
Challenges to Limited Government
Unlimited power remains tempting to authorities, evident in historical and recent examples:
Expansive interpretations of the Commerce Clause and executive power.
Erosion of federalism with federal overreach into state law.
Violations of separation of powers and delegation of legislative authority.
Inadequate adherence to constitutional checks by the judiciary.
Necessary Reforms
Restoration requires courage and prioritizing constitutional health over political gain.
Advocates for an informed citizenry vigilant against overreach and committed officeholders.
Suggested Readings
A selection of works exploring the themes of limited government, historical context, and modern applications, including writings by Jefferson, Locke, Hayek, and others.