Our fearless leader Dr. Paul Carrese explores republicanism—small r republicanism—and how it is reflected in the US Constitution.
• We are a democratic republic, not simply a democracy
• The Constitution guarantees every state a "Republican form of government" in Article 4, Section 4
• A republic means a more complex form of government with representation of the people
• Ancient Rome provided the model for American republicanism, while Athens represented direct democracy
• Our complex system of federalism creates multiple avenues for civic participation
• Republican complexity protects individual rights by creating more space for argument and deliberation
• Understanding America as a democratic republic helps citizens participate more effectively in government
Get out your pocket Constitution and join us in exploring the foundations of American government.
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