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What Is Amending The Constitution Essay

553 Words3 Pages

Erin Dyer
Professor Simpson
Intro to Government
17 September 2017

Amending the Constitution After the failure of the Articles of Confederation, James Madison, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and many others attended the Philadelphia Convention to draft a governing document for the United States of America. The Constitution they signed exactly 230 years ago today has remained to be the most important document of our nation, the guideline to all of our laws and the basis of our national government, balance between the power between the state and national government, and protector of the rights of its citizens. As our nation continues to grow and times change, the needs of the American citizen changes as well. It's imperative that the Constitution is able to withhold and support the changes that our nation faces. Often referred to as a "living document" …show more content…

Social contract theory states that "people agree to give up some rights in the exchange for the protection of others" (Barbour, Wright p. 16). Social contract theory plays a major role in democracy, and requires that citizens are actively involved within their government. I do not think that paying taxes, voting, and occasionally sitting in on a jury is enough. Every citizen should be required to serve two years in public service after high-school completion. Public service could include military, civilian government positions, and even approved non-profit organizations. By asking the citizen to be more engaged within their community, you are empowering the community. People care much more about something that they feel that they are a part of, and by giving more responsibility to the citizen I believe that not only will communities strengthen, but the local and state governments as well. With more active participation, the state will be able to give back more to its

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