Opposing Views Of Alexander Hamilton On The Constitution

Alexander Hamilton was one of the key people in the ratification and debate on the constitution, and his philosophies helped shape present America, which is surprising as Hamilton “ famously called ‘democracy’ a ‘disease’ and a ‘poison.’”(Martin 21) This is not necessarily because he believed in a monarchy or other system of government, but because of his lack of faith in the public, his beliefs that the educated should rule, and the direction the American government took with the inclusion of the Bill of Rights. Although this ideology placed too much faith in the educated, it did consider real problems with a government created by and for the people.

Unlike Jefferson who often left affairs more in the hands of the people, and time than his own actions, Hamilton felt that the people should simply vote for officials and then

In the article Martin explains “[t]hat current stressed the need for a capable, energetic government, led by wise guides chosen by the people.”(24) He also believed that the people already look to those more educated than themselves for guidance, and that applying that pre existing system to the government would be the most beneficial to the people. Hamilton also believed that if the government did get out of hand that the educated people outside of office would urge the people to act against the government or take up arms- just like in the Revolutionary war. Although I don’t believe that only rich old white male lawyers should lead our government, I do see the sense in employing people who have an adequate knowledge of politics, and the American’s needs. The main problem with Hamilton’s system is that it would require large amount of educated ambitious selfless individuals that understand the people’s needs, and frankly, I would be surprised to find