This phrase from the Declaration of Independence is the most important language in Thomas Jefferson’s statement about the deliberative consent and choices of the governed.
“Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, –That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.”
The deliberative consent of the people, common law, subsidiarity, majority rule, the rule of law, are all wrapped up in this one phrase. The best customs, traditions, values and ideals of the people are those that, as to them, shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness.
Are you reflective? Are you applying principles of character when you are reflective? Are you applying American values of individualism and republican thought when you are reflective?
You must be logged in to post a comment.
AN INDPENDENT MODERATE INDIVIDUAL | COPYRIGHT © AIMI
