Essay on Constitution and Democracy As an American, the presence of a written constitution is viewed almost as a prerequisite for a strong, functional democracy. In fact, many democratic nations across the world are able to govern effectively without a document that outlines the basis for rule. Some historical figures, such as Ayatollah Khomeini, argue that the very existence of a written constitution is undemocratic. Democracy at its most basic definition is, “a government by the people.” How can people govern themselves when a written document holds the supreme power? Herein lies the crux of the debate. I argue that a written constitution is essential in order to protect and uphold democracy.
The US Constitution is a limiting document that was written by man. Therefore, the document is democratic because it reflects the voice and the will of the people that it governs. Regardless of the limitations emplaced, the will of the people is still heard via elections and their elected representatives. The fact that the Constitution has the ability to be amended makes it a living document that has the capacity to evolve with society. The amending process is a long and sometimes arduous one, but this adds stability. Stability is democracy’s greatest ally. Laws and regulations passed onto the masses based off of
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As Ambassador John F. Maisto argues, not all democratically elected leaders rule democratically. This point can be observed by the current government of several nations located in Latin and South America. Individuals are elected by the people to not only govern, but also to serve. What happens is that some leaders use this legitimate authority to legally consolidate power and effectively transform a fledgling democracy into an autocracy or an oligarchy. Without limitations placed on man by a written constitution, democracy can be destroyed by