- Supreme Court decisions are always shrouded in controversy, but few decisions can fuel a 36-year debate. The ruling made in the Roe v. Wade case of 1973 was one of those decisions. The decision was "that a woman's right to abortion was protected by the right to privacy under the Constitution's 14th Amendment," (1) and it made abortion legal in the United States. Ever since the justice's gavel fell on that historic day, groups have been actively advocating both for and against the right of pregnant women to have an abortion. Recently, on January 22, the anniversary of the infamous ruling, a large-scale anti-abortion rally was held on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The citizens and politicians who participated in the rally believe that abortion is not just a privacy issue, but a natural rights issue. If you ask an anti-abortionist, as an Iowa Representative did when he spoke, " 'At what instant does life begin?' " they will always answer, " 'Conception!' "(1) They hold the belief that the inalienable right to life that all Americans enjoy also applies to unborn fetuses.
- Former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich has received more attention in the month since his impeachment than in his entire political career thus far. Although it may be overkill, the coverage of his story points out the role of Classical Republican ideas in the modern United States government. Blagojevich was ousted because of several charges of corruption, particularly "engaging in 'pay-to-play' politics"(2) in an attempt to sell the Senate seat left behind by Barack Obama. The complaint was filed "after listening to wiretaps of the governor's phone conversations."(2) In recent years, the government's habit of eavesdropping on Americans' telephone conversations has been a hot topic. During the presidency of George W. Bush, such practices were used in order to find and track suspected terrorists within and outside of the U.S. The government's use of wiretapping is a clear connection to the ideas of Classical Republicanism lent to the Constitution by the ancient Greeks and Romans. They believed that the good of the state as a whole was more important than the rights of the individuals. Sometimes, individuals must give up rights for the safety and security of the state. This is clearly what is happening today. The government has decided to infringe on American individuals' right to privacy, supposedly in order to protect the nation from terrorist attacks. Evidently, the same technology and practices are now being used to protect the state of Illinois from corruption. And, just as with Bush's NSA wiretapping, Rod Blagojevich's right to privacy was limited for the good of the citizens he was elected to serve.
Barack Obama should not be labeled a Federalist just because he has been elected as the president of a federalist government. And, although the original Anti-federalists were opposed to having any form of central government, it is important to remember that Federalist and Anti-federalist are relative terms. Basically, federalists believe that the national government should be strong and have power over the state governments, anti-federalists believe that the national government should not have as much power and should be more limited in their strength. Based on this definition and the few significant actions which Obama has carried out since his inauguration, I would say that our new president is an Anti-federalist. One of the most important decisions that he has made so far was to end "the 'war on terror' as former President George W. Bush defined it." (3) Obama believes that the federal government should never be able to "circumvent longstanding U.S. laws," (3) even when the country is at war. Clearly, Barack strongly feels that the powers of the federal government should be more limited than they have been in recent years, so he is an Anti-federalist.
Sources(1) http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/01/22/obama.abortion/index.html?iref=newssearch
(2)http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/01/08/illinois.governor.impeachment/index.html?iref=newssearch
(3) http://www.courant.com/news/nationworld/hc-gitmo0123.artjan23,0,498089.story
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Political Philsophy Still Debated in United States
Contemporary Constitutional Actions
Nicole Davoren
Period 6 Civics
1.The Natural Rights Philosophy was first formed by John Locke. He believed that if you are born a human being, then you automatically have the right to life, liberty, and property, and the government is there to protect these rights. A recent event unfolded that has shown how our government will investigate when any of these rights are broken. On Friday February 6th, a doctors license was revoked. His patent, a teenager, was planning on having an abortion, gave birth to a live baby, and immediately the baby was killed when clinic staffers put it in to a plastic bag and threw it in the trash. “ A fetus born alive cannot be put to death even if its mother intended to have an abortion” says police. It is rare for a baby born at 23 weeks, such as this one, to live. However, the staff violated the natural rights philosophy when they did noting to help the baby live and put it to its death.
Source: http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/02/06/florida.abortion/index.html
2.Classical Republicanism is the theory where the role of the citizen is to show civic virtue to benefit the common good, and the government and its people act on the good of the community, rather their individual interests. One example of Classical Republicanism today is how some Stop and Shops and Shop Rite pharmacy's in Connecticut are giving away free medication to the public. “All you need is a doctor's prescription, no insurance is necessary. Stop and Shop started offering the free drugs in January during the height of the cold and flu season” says the article. This shows Classical Republicanism because the stores are putting aside their want to make money, and promoting the common good by helping them to stay healthy and get medication, when they other wise couldn't afford them.
Source: http://www.wtnh.com/dpp/news/news_wtnh_cromwell_health_free_antibiotics_200902052330_rev1
3.President Obama's actions have shown us that he is a Federalist. According to the West's American Government textbook Federalists are “those who favor a strong central government and the new Constitution.” An example of how Obama shows that he is a Federalist, is his proposed economic stimulus plan. This plan is Federalist, because it the central government will delegate where and what the money will be put into, and it will be shared throughout the entire country. “At its core, the legislation is designed to ease the worst economic recession in generations, and combines hundreds of billions of dollars in spending to boost consumption by the public sector, along with tax cuts designed to increase consumer spending.” says the article. If Obama was Anti Federalist, he would leave the choice of stimulating the economy to the separate states.
Source: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090207/ap_on_go_co/congress_stimulus
Period 6 Civics
1.The Natural Rights Philosophy was first formed by John Locke. He believed that if you are born a human being, then you automatically have the right to life, liberty, and property, and the government is there to protect these rights. A recent event unfolded that has shown how our government will investigate when any of these rights are broken. On Friday February 6th, a doctors license was revoked. His patent, a teenager, was planning on having an abortion, gave birth to a live baby, and immediately the baby was killed when clinic staffers put it in to a plastic bag and threw it in the trash. “ A fetus born alive cannot be put to death even if its mother intended to have an abortion” says police. It is rare for a baby born at 23 weeks, such as this one, to live. However, the staff violated the natural rights philosophy when they did noting to help the baby live and put it to its death.
Source: http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/02/06/florida.abortion/index.html
2.Classical Republicanism is the theory where the role of the citizen is to show civic virtue to benefit the common good, and the government and its people act on the good of the community, rather their individual interests. One example of Classical Republicanism today is how some Stop and Shops and Shop Rite pharmacy's in Connecticut are giving away free medication to the public. “All you need is a doctor's prescription, no insurance is necessary. Stop and Shop started offering the free drugs in January during the height of the cold and flu season” says the article. This shows Classical Republicanism because the stores are putting aside their want to make money, and promoting the common good by helping them to stay healthy and get medication, when they other wise couldn't afford them.
Source: http://www.wtnh.com/dpp/news/news_wtnh_cromwell_health_free_antibiotics_200902052330_rev1
3.President Obama's actions have shown us that he is a Federalist. According to the West's American Government textbook Federalists are “those who favor a strong central government and the new Constitution.” An example of how Obama shows that he is a Federalist, is his proposed economic stimulus plan. This plan is Federalist, because it the central government will delegate where and what the money will be put into, and it will be shared throughout the entire country. “At its core, the legislation is designed to ease the worst economic recession in generations, and combines hundreds of billions of dollars in spending to boost consumption by the public sector, along with tax cuts designed to increase consumer spending.” says the article. If Obama was Anti Federalist, he would leave the choice of stimulating the economy to the separate states.
Source: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090207/ap_on_go_co/congress_stimulus
Today's Connections to the Constitutional Actions
1. Natural Rights Philosophy, "Rights that people supposedly have under natural law. The Declaration of Independence of the United States lists life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as natural rights." One of that confirms that our rights are still being protected today is in the article "Parole Board Opposes Inmate's Execution." A man (Jeffery Hill) "who stabbed his mother to death in 1991 in a crack-cocaine-induced rage" was scheduled of execution on March 3. Although, his excution was opposed by his family members that he should not be put to death. "The Ohio Parole Board ruled Friday in a rare decision opposing capital punishment." By the natural rights philosophy, Jeffrey Hill's life was protected by "the board voted 8 to 0 in favor of mercy for the inmate," instead Jeffrey Hill was sentence to life in prison with parole suitability after 25 years. With the consent of his family members Jeffrey Hill's life is saved and protected.
Sources: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/08/us/08ohio.html?ref=us
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/natural%20rights
2. On February 3, 2009, Louis D. Brandeis High School taking in "some of the city’s most disadvantaged students and has struggled year after year to bump up test scores and graduation rates" will be closed and will replaced by three new schools. Since Louis D. Brandeis High School is "a large general-curriculum institution rich in course offerings but short on personal interaction" the Department of Education is ordering them to close so that no longer, there will be personal interaction. Louis D. Brandeis High School is to be divided into three other new schools. "One to prepare students for careers in alternative energy, one for students who are at least two years behind in earning credits, and one focused on college preparation." Classical Republicanism is the "theory in which the role of the citizen is to benefit the common good through civic virtue, or their dedication to government at any cost of their individual interests." This is a contemporary event which clearly depicts Classical Republicanism by the school dividing up into three other school to increase the personal interactions, for the common good of the students.
Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/04/education/04brandeis.html?ref=education
3. Barack Obama is a Federalist. Federalism, "A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units." Barack Obama on Saturday urged Congress to resolve their "differences in the massive economic recovery measure and “put this plan in motion” to bring fiscal relief and new jobs to all corners of the country." Obama is empowering people and he is willing to change the nation and the world.
Sources: http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/02/07/obama-calls-on-congress-to-put-stimulus-plan-in-motion/?scp=2&sq=Obama&st=cse
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/federalism
Sources: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/08/us/08ohio.html?ref=us
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/natural%20rights
2. On February 3, 2009, Louis D. Brandeis High School taking in "some of the city’s most disadvantaged students and has struggled year after year to bump up test scores and graduation rates" will be closed and will replaced by three new schools. Since Louis D. Brandeis High School is "a large general-curriculum institution rich in course offerings but short on personal interaction" the Department of Education is ordering them to close so that no longer, there will be personal interaction. Louis D. Brandeis High School is to be divided into three other new schools. "One to prepare students for careers in alternative energy, one for students who are at least two years behind in earning credits, and one focused on college preparation." Classical Republicanism is the "theory in which the role of the citizen is to benefit the common good through civic virtue, or their dedication to government at any cost of their individual interests." This is a contemporary event which clearly depicts Classical Republicanism by the school dividing up into three other school to increase the personal interactions, for the common good of the students.
Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/04/education/04brandeis.html?ref=education
3. Barack Obama is a Federalist. Federalism, "A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units." Barack Obama on Saturday urged Congress to resolve their "differences in the massive economic recovery measure and “put this plan in motion” to bring fiscal relief and new jobs to all corners of the country." Obama is empowering people and he is willing to change the nation and the world.
Sources: http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/02/07/obama-calls-on-congress-to-put-stimulus-plan-in-motion/?scp=2&sq=Obama&st=cse
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/federalism
Foundations of History
1.Freedom is the main concept behind the Natural Rights created by John Locke and this is what every human being deserves from the moment they are born into the world. Though it took hundreds of years to give slaves and millions of others a break from the chains, there is still one form of labor in the world which does not follow the Natural Rights; sweatshops. In China workers earn less than $2 a day while their labor may be worth up to $100 when their products are sold to companies across the world. The Chinese government does not give its citizens the chance at all three rights and they break them in many ways. Many in society have no freedom to choose where they work or how to get by in life because their only option is to do what everyone else does; in the unfair labor conditions of sweatshops. The liberty aspect of the natural rights is described as, “People want to be as free as possible from the domination of others, to be able to make their own decisions, and to live as they please.” A large amount of the working class in China and hundreds of other countries in the world are not granted this freedom that Locke believes every human should have. Many are forced as a child to work in sweatshops in unfair conditions where injury, sexual assault, and little pay are all common. Since the Chinese government does not protect the natural rights of its citizens, Locke believes that they should rebel, and many have attempted. The best example of changing the unfair way of an average Chinese citizen can be seen from the outbreak of Tiananmen Square. Though unsuccessful, it should represent how no man, women, or child can be content in a land where Locke’s Natural Rights are not granted.
Source-http://www.thestar.com/GlobalVoices/Junior/article/582116
2.Though not seen as one of the most popular presidents, George Bush used Classic Republicanism as he helped try to ease the economic dilemma facing him by tax rebates to nearly every American citizen. Bush planned to give up to $600 a person, $1200 for couples, and $300 per child and all money would be sent from the IRS when taxes were filed. As the economic crisis loomed on the forefront of Bush’s issues, he wanted to give the people money so that they could spend it and restart the economy and American business. He did not simply target the rich, or the poor under his plan, but did it for the good of the people and the desire to alter the economy for the better, though it would soon be in tatters. This plan was unsuccessful, but most likely helped boost consumer spending to a certain degree. It was not a wasted attempt and was worth the try. This rebate is a great example among many in American where Classic Republicanism was brought forth.
Source-http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/25/AR2008042501399_pf.html
3.By far, Obama is a Federalist because of his plan to unify America, and make it whole again. Rather than let each state govern the affairs within, he wants to have a strong central government that controls and makes rules for all of them. His plan of National Healthcare shows this side of him as he tries to give health coverage to every individual within America. He has already completed some of this by giving coverage to kids. “As I think everybody here will agree, this is only the first step. Because the way I see it, providing coverage to 11 million children through CHIP is a down payment on my commitment to cover every single American.” The planned bill will cost around 150 billion dollars a year so that government can give everyone the care they need. This is a great example of how he is a Federalist. He also is planning to use one massive stimulus plan that he hopes can change all of America as every citizen fights through the current economic catastrophe. Rather than state rights, Obama uses the power of government to his advantage in trying to solve nearly every problem that America is currently facing. This has its advantages and disadvantages but definitely portrays a Federalist state of mind.
Source-http://americandaily.com/index.php/article/497
Source-http://www.thestar.com/GlobalVoices/Junior/article/582116
2.Though not seen as one of the most popular presidents, George Bush used Classic Republicanism as he helped try to ease the economic dilemma facing him by tax rebates to nearly every American citizen. Bush planned to give up to $600 a person, $1200 for couples, and $300 per child and all money would be sent from the IRS when taxes were filed. As the economic crisis loomed on the forefront of Bush’s issues, he wanted to give the people money so that they could spend it and restart the economy and American business. He did not simply target the rich, or the poor under his plan, but did it for the good of the people and the desire to alter the economy for the better, though it would soon be in tatters. This plan was unsuccessful, but most likely helped boost consumer spending to a certain degree. It was not a wasted attempt and was worth the try. This rebate is a great example among many in American where Classic Republicanism was brought forth.
Source-http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/25/AR2008042501399_pf.html
3.By far, Obama is a Federalist because of his plan to unify America, and make it whole again. Rather than let each state govern the affairs within, he wants to have a strong central government that controls and makes rules for all of them. His plan of National Healthcare shows this side of him as he tries to give health coverage to every individual within America. He has already completed some of this by giving coverage to kids. “As I think everybody here will agree, this is only the first step. Because the way I see it, providing coverage to 11 million children through CHIP is a down payment on my commitment to cover every single American.” The planned bill will cost around 150 billion dollars a year so that government can give everyone the care they need. This is a great example of how he is a Federalist. He also is planning to use one massive stimulus plan that he hopes can change all of America as every citizen fights through the current economic catastrophe. Rather than state rights, Obama uses the power of government to his advantage in trying to solve nearly every problem that America is currently facing. This has its advantages and disadvantages but definitely portrays a Federalist state of mind.
Source-http://americandaily.com/index.php/article/497
Current Events Applied to Old Ideas
Question 1:
The Natural Rights Philosophy was developed by John Locke and states that all human beings have the unalienable rights to life, liberty and property. One example of these rights being protected today is the federal law that provides visas to illegal immigrants who have been abused if they help prosecute their abusers. Although this law was passed in 2000 it is still an issue today because rules about how to get the visa have just been created. This law protects the victim’s rights to life and liberty. This law allows the victims to get away from there abusers and be free from their attacks. It also allows them to start over and live a normal life. The only problem with this law is that “more than 13,000 people took the government's offer but so far only 65 — just 0.5 percent — have gotten their reward.” This is because some government officials don’t think that some crimes are serious enough or that the victim can not help prosecute their abusers.
Source: http://news.aol.com/article/few-crime-victims-helped-by-visa-law-okd/333234
Question 2:
Classical Republicanism is “the theory that holds that the best kind of society is one that promotes the common welfare instead of the interests of one class of citizens.” An example of this happening now is the fact that charities are not receiving less money even through the economic recession. A man named Tuohey, who donates ten percent of his income to charity every year says, "It just means you have to dig a little deeper." Some charities have said that their donations have actually increased in response to the recession. Though people are losing their jobs, they are still thinking about people other than themselves. This is an example of civic virtue that most people would never expect.
Sources: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29056129/ and We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution
Question 3:
A Federalist is an advocate of the ratifications of the U.S. constitution and a strong central government. Unlike Anti-Federalists, Obama believes that there should be more power in the central government than in individual states. Barak Obama wants the government to have more control to help the United States get out of this economic recession. President Obama wants to put a 36 percent cap on interest loans and also have an exception on the bankruptcy laws for medical expenses. He also wants to have more control in businesses by creating the FMLA or Family and Medical Leave Act. This is gives worker leave to take care of their elders and gives them 24 hours of leave to participate in their children’s academic activities. This involvement in banking and companies are examples of how President Barak Obama is a federalist.
Sources: We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution and http://www.barackobama.com/issues/economy/index.php#bankruptcy
The Natural Rights Philosophy was developed by John Locke and states that all human beings have the unalienable rights to life, liberty and property. One example of these rights being protected today is the federal law that provides visas to illegal immigrants who have been abused if they help prosecute their abusers. Although this law was passed in 2000 it is still an issue today because rules about how to get the visa have just been created. This law protects the victim’s rights to life and liberty. This law allows the victims to get away from there abusers and be free from their attacks. It also allows them to start over and live a normal life. The only problem with this law is that “more than 13,000 people took the government's offer but so far only 65 — just 0.5 percent — have gotten their reward.” This is because some government officials don’t think that some crimes are serious enough or that the victim can not help prosecute their abusers.
Source: http://news.aol.com/article/few-crime-victims-helped-by-visa-law-okd/333234
Question 2:
Classical Republicanism is “the theory that holds that the best kind of society is one that promotes the common welfare instead of the interests of one class of citizens.” An example of this happening now is the fact that charities are not receiving less money even through the economic recession. A man named Tuohey, who donates ten percent of his income to charity every year says, "It just means you have to dig a little deeper." Some charities have said that their donations have actually increased in response to the recession. Though people are losing their jobs, they are still thinking about people other than themselves. This is an example of civic virtue that most people would never expect.
Sources: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29056129/ and We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution
Question 3:
A Federalist is an advocate of the ratifications of the U.S. constitution and a strong central government. Unlike Anti-Federalists, Obama believes that there should be more power in the central government than in individual states. Barak Obama wants the government to have more control to help the United States get out of this economic recession. President Obama wants to put a 36 percent cap on interest loans and also have an exception on the bankruptcy laws for medical expenses. He also wants to have more control in businesses by creating the FMLA or Family and Medical Leave Act. This is gives worker leave to take care of their elders and gives them 24 hours of leave to participate in their children’s academic activities. This involvement in banking and companies are examples of how President Barak Obama is a federalist.
Sources: We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution and http://www.barackobama.com/issues/economy/index.php#bankruptcy
Modern Events and the Constitution
1. Together a Captain and fast moving New York rescue teams helped ensure the Natural Rights of the other 154 people traveling on an airplane. The Natural Rights Philosophy includes the right to life, liberty, and property. On Thursday, January 15th 2009, US Airways Flight 1549 took off at 3:26 p.m. and seemed to be a normal flight. When, in less than a minute of flight the Pilot, Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, reported a "double bird strike”, thus disabling the engines and leaving the passengers and crew to imminent doom. However, the Captain felt it was his “responsibility” to ensure the life of his passengers. The pilot made quick decisions and made a crash landing in the Hudson River. This man is a hero for saving the lives of the “confirmed 150 passengers, three flight attendants and two pilots that were on board the jetliner.” In addition the rescue crews made it their jobs to continue the protection of the rights of the people by quickly rescuing the stranded passengers and crew. The people of the airplane had the inalienable right to life under the Natural Rights Philosophy; it was just a good thing that those rights were to preserve their rights.
Source:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28678669/
2. A fantastic example of Classical Republicanism is government letting Lehman Brothers fail. Classical Republicanism is “a type of government that promotes the common welfare rather then the interest of one class of citizens.” As stated in (Source1). Lehman brothers filed for bankruptcy on September 15th 2008, and unlike AIG, Citi Group, and Bear Stearns, Government did not bail them out. Government was looking out for the common welfare of its people rather than the shady executives who worked at Lehman Brothers. So the question is why didn’t the Government bail them out? Government was trying to set an example saying some one has to fail. This decision is pivotal and will be in the future because it makes a statement and puts things in perspective. As is the case in the article, “Maybe there are a few institutions that are truly "too big to fail." But most aren't, and the failure of unsuccessful firms used to be capitalism's way of clearing the decks for smarter entrepreneurs with fresher ideas and better products.” (Source2). This can only benefit the people of American and certainly not cause damage like Citi Group or AIG could if they were not saved. The Government found that “Lehman Brothers looks increasingly like a firm that we're better off without. Now that it's out of the way, maybe somebody with better ideas—and a bit more decency—might take its place.” As the author of the article put it. In conclusion the American Government used Classical Republicanism by letting Lehman Brothers fail.
Source:
Source 1: We the People- The Citizen and the Constitution
Source 2: http://www.usnews.com/blogs/flowchart/2008/12/30/best-move-of-2008-letting-lehman-fail.html
3. President Barack Obama is definitely a member of the Federalist Party. The Federalist Party believes that power should be in a central government. Whereas an Anti-Federalist believes that power should be given to separate states to govern themselves. President Obama is a Federalist because his policies are those similar to Federalist ideals. President Obama and Vice President believe that health care should be available to everyone no matter what income. They want improve on the current healthcare procedures in America “The Obama-Biden plan provides affordable, accessible health care for all Americans, builds on the existing health care system, and uses existing providers, doctors, and plans.” By organizing health care, this shows that President Obama is adamant in creating some type of universal healthcare. He is not allowing the insurance companies and drug manufacturers complete power and say in what occurs. Americans will save considerably “Under the plan, if you like your current health insurance, nothing changes, except your costs will go down by as much as $2,500 per year. If you don’t have health insurance, you will have a choice of new, affordable health insurance options.” All in all universal health care is an example of how President Obama is a Federalist, because it organizes the countries health care options, but also gives the power to a central government.
Source:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/agenda/health_care/
Throwback to the foundations
1. In the United States, businesses effected by the economic recession are shedding jobs fast, pushing the unemployment rate to 7.6 percent, with over a million unemployed in two months(November and December). And these numbers aren't estimated to improve until 2011 (at least) when job growth is expected to return to a healthy pace. With some 3.6 million jobs disappearing, President Obama has proposeda three-part plan to take these problems head-on: jump-starting the economy, solving the housing crisis, and stabilizing the banking industry. The 800 billion (plus) stimulus package will act to bail out the failing companies and restore confidence in the market, but has yet to be voted on. The problem that triggered the economic downturn,the housing industry, is also under reform. The two mortage giants - Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac - are now both directly under federal control.The government is taking the role to protect at least one of the natural rights of its citizens and stop unemployment and foreclosures (the pursuit of happiness).But,while the financial market can be quick to rebound, the labor market tends to react more slowly,so even if stocks or other financial indicators improve, there may still be job losses.
source: http://www.courant.com/business/hc-jobless0207.artfeb07,0,2497336.story
2. A major condemnation of the Bush administration centered around interrogation techniques used by the CIA against suspected terrorists, i.e. prisoners at Gitmo or detainees shipped to countries where torture is legal. President Obama's nominee for the next CIA director, Leon Panetta, has promised to shun controversialinterrogation techniques used by former CIA members, stating that "...we can get the information we need, we can provide for the security of the American people and we can abide by the law." When asked if the safety and security of the American public was a No.1 priority, Panetta responded, "Everyone agrees that is the No. 1 priority."Interestingly enough, Panetta also stated that CIA agents who were previously sanctioned to use "harsh" interrogation methods should not be prosecuted. All in all, Obama's efforts to change the Bush administration's policies can be interpreted as an attempt to promote the common good, but this time in a legal fashion.
source: http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/02/05/panetta.torture/index.html?iref=newssearch
3. The idea that there is a separation between national and state government is obvious. Its equally obvious that the current power held by the presidential office in itself is proof that Obama is a federalist (otherwise, he wouldn't have as much power). Such plans as universal health care or a national stimulus package are his testaments ("A bold new national goal on energy effiency,"tax cuts, social security,etc.). If the U.S. was anti-federalist, it would not have/want a president.
source: http://www.barackobama.com/issues/
source: http://www.courant.com/business/hc-jobless0207.artfeb07,0,2497336.story
2. A major condemnation of the Bush administration centered around interrogation techniques used by the CIA against suspected terrorists, i.e. prisoners at Gitmo or detainees shipped to countries where torture is legal. President Obama's nominee for the next CIA director, Leon Panetta, has promised to shun controversialinterrogation techniques used by former CIA members, stating that "...we can get the information we need, we can provide for the security of the American people and we can abide by the law." When asked if the safety and security of the American public was a No.1 priority, Panetta responded, "Everyone agrees that is the No. 1 priority."Interestingly enough, Panetta also stated that CIA agents who were previously sanctioned to use "harsh" interrogation methods should not be prosecuted. All in all, Obama's efforts to change the Bush administration's policies can be interpreted as an attempt to promote the common good, but this time in a legal fashion.
source: http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/02/05/panetta.torture/index.html?iref=newssearch
3. The idea that there is a separation between national and state government is obvious. Its equally obvious that the current power held by the presidential office in itself is proof that Obama is a federalist (otherwise, he wouldn't have as much power). Such plans as universal health care or a national stimulus package are his testaments ("A bold new national goal on energy effiency,"tax cuts, social security,etc.). If the U.S. was anti-federalist, it would not have/want a president.
source: http://www.barackobama.com/issues/
Old Ideologies: New Events
1.A recent issue has been the legality of same sex marriage. Over the last few years especially there have been huge strides for homosexual rights. In New England starting with Massachusetts, the movement has spread to Connecticut and now Vermont. “A bill to legalize same-sex marriages was introduced in the House, nine years after Vermont became the first state to permit civil unions. A crowd of several hundred supporters gathered at the State House in celebration. The bill has 59 sponsors, all of them Democrats, who overwhelmingly control both houses of the legislature.” This is a clear example of the Natural Rights Philosophy. The Government has adapted into law, rights of the minority. They are looking out for the good of the individual.
Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/07/us/07brfs-SAMESEXMARRI_BRF.html?_r=1
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/16/opinion/16mfberry.html
2. President Obama’s stimulus plan is a prime example of classical republicanism. The stimulus plan is Obama’s method to pull America out of its current economic crisis. This stimulus package will “immediately inject 75 billion dollars into the economy in the form of tax cuts and direct spending targeted to working families, seniors, homeowners and the unemployed.” As well as this financial package, the stimulus plan “includes 45 billion dollars in reserves that can be injected into the economy quickly in the future if the economy continues to deteriorate.” This stimulus plan demonstrates classical republicanism because Obama is looking out for the greater good by putting money into society’s pocket. The government is providing “its citizens with liberty under government and stressing the common good, or what is best for the society as a whole.” President Obama explains that “in the midst of our greatest economic crisis since the Great Depression, the American people were hoping that Congress would begin to confront the great challenges we face. That was, after all, what last November’s election was all about.”
Sources: http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/02/07/obama-calls-on-congress-to-put-stimulus-plan-in-motion/?hp
http://www.barackobama.com/2008/01/13/barack_obama_announces_plan_to.php
3. Obama has clearly adapted federalist principals in his policies on the economy, healthcare and energy. First, any plan of economic stimulus is an example of the federal government taking control of the nations economy. The problem of economic recession is not entirely monetary but media driven. As we keep hearing negative things about the economy, we are less likely to spend money in fear things will only get worse. The economic stimulus needed is that the American people stop worrying about media scare and reinvigorate the economy with purchases. In other words, the trickle up effect. If everyone uses their funds like they did a year ago, the economy will stimulate itself, inherently creating more jobs and returning American wealth. Obama's plan is federalist because he is putting the task of fixing the economy solely on the federal government and giving no decision to the states. Furthermore his healthcare plan calls for employers to increase their health care plans. This mandate would be federal and state government would not be able to regulate the conditions of which employers provide such care. Lastly, Obama wants to make the nation green and rely on renewable energy. I believe he said he would "bankrupt the coal industry" with taxes and superfluous regulations, which the industry would not be able to meet. Whether his intentions are moral or not, he is not giving states the choice to allow coal companies to proceed. His energy plan also calls for the creation of renewable energy plants, which I can imagine the government would own or have a majority voice in. In other words, the federal government would own Americans energy. This is another example of federalist doctrine.
Sources: http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/02/07/obama-calls-on-congress-to-put-stimulus-plan-in-motion/?hp
http://www.barackobama.com/2008/01/13/barack_obama_announces_plan_to.php
Friday, February 6, 2009
Modern Connections to the Constitution
1. The Natural Rights Philosophy explains the importance of the individual's unalienable right to life, liberty, and property. An example of this philosophy can be found in the recent news article, titled, "Obama Faith Office Broadening Focus On Teen Pregnancy, Reducing Abortion Need, Other Issues." Many citizens today forget the most basic right to life when considering abortion. However, with the transition of the presidency to Obama, there has been more discussion concerning this vital right to life. The author of the article writes, "...President Obama plans to expand and refocus former President George W. Bush's faith-based initiatives to include programs aimed at reducing the need for abortions..." which means that the government is working to allow every embryo to have the chance to live. Clearly, President Obama is taking on the correct job of government by securing the natural rigt to life for these defenseless embryos.
Source-"Obama Faith Office Broadening Focus On Teen Pregnancy, Reducing Abortion Need, Other Issues." Medical News Today: Health News. 6 Feb. 2009. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/138115.php.
2- One event in the recent past that shows that Classical Republicanism is still around in the United States is Al Gore's push for a healthier environment. Through his plan to eliminate all carbon energy sources within ten years, Gore hopes, "to rerscue civilization from the threat posed by climate change." This shows his concern for the entire population, without worrying about selfish reasoning. He understands that this may cause some economic trouble in the short term, but realizes that the moral obligation to protect the environment for future generations is more important. This coincides with the philosophy of Classical Republicanism, which promotes civic virtue and morality.
Source- Kreutzer, David W., and Al Gore. "Al Gore's Challenge." New York Times: Upfront 12 Jan. 2009: pg. 30
3. President Barack Obama is a Federalists, as seen in several of his policies that empower the central government while taking away from the responsibilities of individual states. One example of his national governemental policies coming before the state governments' policies is his idea of energy and climate change. In a national movement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, President Obama wants to "give all American consumers and businesses the incentives to use their ingenuity to develop economically effective solutions to climate change." This will be done through the "Cap and Trade Program," which more or less will make everyone pay for the emissions that they produce. All in all, Obama's push for a national movement to prevent climate change is just an example of his use of Federalist policies.
Source- "BARACK OBAMA AND JOE BIDEN: NEW ENERGY FOR AMERICA." Www.barackobama.com. Obama-Biden. 7 Feb. 2008.
Source-"Obama Faith Office Broadening Focus On Teen Pregnancy, Reducing Abortion Need, Other Issues." Medical News Today: Health News. 6 Feb. 2009. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/138115.php.
2- One event in the recent past that shows that Classical Republicanism is still around in the United States is Al Gore's push for a healthier environment. Through his plan to eliminate all carbon energy sources within ten years, Gore hopes, "to rerscue civilization from the threat posed by climate change." This shows his concern for the entire population, without worrying about selfish reasoning. He understands that this may cause some economic trouble in the short term, but realizes that the moral obligation to protect the environment for future generations is more important. This coincides with the philosophy of Classical Republicanism, which promotes civic virtue and morality.
Source- Kreutzer, David W., and Al Gore. "Al Gore's Challenge." New York Times: Upfront 12 Jan. 2009: pg. 30
3. President Barack Obama is a Federalists, as seen in several of his policies that empower the central government while taking away from the responsibilities of individual states. One example of his national governemental policies coming before the state governments' policies is his idea of energy and climate change. In a national movement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, President Obama wants to "give all American consumers and businesses the incentives to use their ingenuity to develop economically effective solutions to climate change." This will be done through the "Cap and Trade Program," which more or less will make everyone pay for the emissions that they produce. All in all, Obama's push for a national movement to prevent climate change is just an example of his use of Federalist policies.
Source- "BARACK OBAMA AND JOE BIDEN: NEW ENERGY FOR AMERICA." Www.barackobama.com. Obama-Biden. 7 Feb. 2008.
The Correlation of Current Events to the Constitution
1. The current issue going on in Iraq demonstrates the Natural Rights Philosophy. Iraq is leading towards a more democratic system of government as a result of our government sending in troops to remove the previous ruler and maintain order in society. Our troops were partially sent over to Iraq to remove the dictator, Saddam Hussein and his followers who were trying to upset our plan to instill a democracy. After Hussein was removed from power, our troops worked to create a democratic system which created elections and protection of the citizen’s natural rights (life, liberty, and property). Currently, President Obama has initiated a plan to begin the removal of our troops from Iraq in order to allow Iraq to become a full democracy. By removing ourselves from Iraq we are allowing Iraq to make their own decisions and be responsible for the protection of the Iraqi people’s natural rights. At this time, the U.S. is being more aggressive on clearly separating ourselves from Iraq in order to return our troops safely. President Biden said that the U.S administration has to be "much more aggressive ... forcing them [Iraq] to deal with those issues” (Source 1).
(Source 1- US to be 'more aggressive' with Iraq on political reform
http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20090206/wl_mideast_afp/usiraqpoliticsbiden_20090206155159)
2. According to Source 1, Classical Republicanism is “a type of government that promotes the common welfare rather then the interest of one class of citizens.” An example of this is President Obama’s tax cut plan which is going to cut taxes for the middle class citizens and raise it for the upper classes. As stated in one of President Obama’s speeches, he said, “I will provide a tax cut for 95% of Americans. If you make less than a quarter of a million dollars a year, you will not see a single dime of your taxes go up. If you make $200,000 a year or less, your taxes will go down… Only a few percent of small businesses make more than $250,000 a year” (Source 2). Under the previous presidency of George W. Bush, this plan for tax cuts was not in place. As a result, President Obama’s tax cut plan will help the majority of the people, which consists of middle and lower classes. They will not have to pay as much as the upper class because they are receiving these tax cuts. More of these citizens in the middle and lower class will then be in a more ideal economic living situation. The upper class will have to pay more taxes than these classes; however this will not be as difficult because they earn higher salaries which enable them to pay for these taxes. President Obama’s tax cut plan is for the benefit of the majority of our population which is found in the middle and lower classes. This is aimed at the general welfare of society rather than one particular class.
(Source 1- We the People- The Citizen and the Constitution)
(Source 2- http://www.ontheissues.org/Economic/Barack_Obama_Tax_Reform.htm)
3. President Obama represents the characteristics of being a Federalist. A Federalist is an “advocate of ratification of the U.S. Constitution and a strong centralized government” (Source 1). President Obama wants the centralized government to provide jobs for the people. When the government backed off in the past, unemployment became more of an issue. Companies became out of control with their incomes and benefits. They were selfish and as a result of this greed, the housing market collapsed because they sold mortgages to people whose salaries were much less. As a result of this, people went bankrupt because they could not afford the mortgages. The banks were losing money because the house owners were not paying their mortgages resulting in the insurance companies not receiving their invested money, thus, were forced to lay their employees off. This is one continuous cycle that forces more and more people to be laid off due to people no longer purchasing pleasures, but only purchasing the necessities. In order to address this ongoing conflict, President Obama has come up with a plan to stimulate the economy and jumpstart production in the work field. President Obama will do so by having the centralized government more involved with decisions in business in order to prevent the company’s greed from surfacing and averting another economic recession. One way that President Obama and Vice President Biden want to address the problem with unemployment is by creating jobs through infrastructure projects. This will not only create jobs but it will also stimulate the economy by giving money to the consumer (who is now provided with a job). According to President Obama’s plan, “These projects will create up to two million new direct and indirect jobs and stimulate approximately $35 billion per year in new economic activity” (Source 2). All in all, it seems that President Obama is a believer in the Federalist Party because he is taking an interest in having the government help fix our economic and other domestic issues.
(Source 1- We the People- The Citizen and the Constitution)
(Source 2- http://www.barackobama.com/issues/economy/index.php#jumpstart)
(Source 1- US to be 'more aggressive' with Iraq on political reform
http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20090206/wl_mideast_afp/usiraqpoliticsbiden_20090206155159)
2. According to Source 1, Classical Republicanism is “a type of government that promotes the common welfare rather then the interest of one class of citizens.” An example of this is President Obama’s tax cut plan which is going to cut taxes for the middle class citizens and raise it for the upper classes. As stated in one of President Obama’s speeches, he said, “I will provide a tax cut for 95% of Americans. If you make less than a quarter of a million dollars a year, you will not see a single dime of your taxes go up. If you make $200,000 a year or less, your taxes will go down… Only a few percent of small businesses make more than $250,000 a year” (Source 2). Under the previous presidency of George W. Bush, this plan for tax cuts was not in place. As a result, President Obama’s tax cut plan will help the majority of the people, which consists of middle and lower classes. They will not have to pay as much as the upper class because they are receiving these tax cuts. More of these citizens in the middle and lower class will then be in a more ideal economic living situation. The upper class will have to pay more taxes than these classes; however this will not be as difficult because they earn higher salaries which enable them to pay for these taxes. President Obama’s tax cut plan is for the benefit of the majority of our population which is found in the middle and lower classes. This is aimed at the general welfare of society rather than one particular class.
(Source 1- We the People- The Citizen and the Constitution)
(Source 2- http://www.ontheissues.org/Economic/Barack_Obama_Tax_Reform.htm)
3. President Obama represents the characteristics of being a Federalist. A Federalist is an “advocate of ratification of the U.S. Constitution and a strong centralized government” (Source 1). President Obama wants the centralized government to provide jobs for the people. When the government backed off in the past, unemployment became more of an issue. Companies became out of control with their incomes and benefits. They were selfish and as a result of this greed, the housing market collapsed because they sold mortgages to people whose salaries were much less. As a result of this, people went bankrupt because they could not afford the mortgages. The banks were losing money because the house owners were not paying their mortgages resulting in the insurance companies not receiving their invested money, thus, were forced to lay their employees off. This is one continuous cycle that forces more and more people to be laid off due to people no longer purchasing pleasures, but only purchasing the necessities. In order to address this ongoing conflict, President Obama has come up with a plan to stimulate the economy and jumpstart production in the work field. President Obama will do so by having the centralized government more involved with decisions in business in order to prevent the company’s greed from surfacing and averting another economic recession. One way that President Obama and Vice President Biden want to address the problem with unemployment is by creating jobs through infrastructure projects. This will not only create jobs but it will also stimulate the economy by giving money to the consumer (who is now provided with a job). According to President Obama’s plan, “These projects will create up to two million new direct and indirect jobs and stimulate approximately $35 billion per year in new economic activity” (Source 2). All in all, it seems that President Obama is a believer in the Federalist Party because he is taking an interest in having the government help fix our economic and other domestic issues.
(Source 1- We the People- The Citizen and the Constitution)
(Source 2- http://www.barackobama.com/issues/economy/index.php#jumpstart)
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Contemporary Connections to Constitutional Beliefs
1. The fact that the US government is rapidly recalling peanut butter products that may contain salmonella is an example of the natural rights philosophy. Though it was a mistake for these products to be shipped in the first place, the massive recall shows that the US government does care about the health of its citizens. Though salmonella poisoning that can be caused by this peanut butter usually just causes a temporary sickness, "infants, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are more likely to have severe and life-threatening illness." One of the natural, unalienable rights is that every individual has the right to life. Philosopher John Locke in particular believed that the government's purpose was to secure each of the natural rights, and that's exactly what they are doing by protecting more people from being infected, as "Sundlof urges consumers to keep checking the FDA's searchable list of recalled peanut products because that list is likely to keep growing." Hopefully the recall will end soon, but until then, the government is doing the best they can to prevent further danger on the unalienable right to life.
http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/food-poisoning/news/20090128/salmonella-peanut-butter-recall-expands?src=RSS_PUBLIC
http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/food-poisoning/news/20090128/salmonella-peanut-butter-recall-expands?src=RSS_PUBLIC
2. Iraq recently held provincial elections that "will set the political landscape of Iraq for the next several years." These elections are the first real test of Iraq's new government. Since Classical Republicanism was for protecting the rights of citizens and doing what was best for the common good, the idea corresponds with these elections. This is because these are elections by the people for the best representatives of what they need. The citizens now have a say in who gets to protect their rights, and the government is now based on what is best for the majority by having these elections. It's interesting to see that such an old practice can be used in this modern world.
Source:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28878556/
3. President Obama is definitely a Federalist. Federalists believe that the power should revolve around the central government, while Anti-Federalists want the power of government to truly be in the hands of the separate states. The United States is much too large for the latter to work because it would be much less organized, and Obama is surely aware of this. For instance, Obama supports the idea of nationalized healthcare. He has put "an emphasis on dramatically and quickly increasing the number of people who have health insurance by spending significant money upfront." This increasing number deals with the nation as a whole, rather than separate states. Currently, our government does not have nationalized healthcare, it is instead dealt with differently depending on the state. The fact that Obama is striving to change this policy is an obvious indication that he is a Federalist.Source:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28878556/
Source:
http://www.thehealthcareblog.com/the_health_care_blog/2008/03/a-detailed-anal.html
Constitutional Actions In Modern Times
Question #1
The biggest example of trying to protect natural rights in today's society can be found in the group of people that has come together in order to save the people of Darfur from the violence they have been faced with. The people of darfur are plagued with "shooting, mutilating and torturing children," as well as other citizens of Darfur, which has been carried out by groups and armed forces. There is also a strong presense of sexual violence towards the women of Sudan, and other violent acts involved with the crisis have been infringing on the natural rights of the population. People all over, including groups such as the Watchlist on Children and Armed Conflict who have been "making urgent recommendations to the authorities of the Government of National Unity (GoNU), the Government of Southern Sudan (GoSS) and the Government of the Republic of Chad; all armed groups operating in Sudan; the UN Security Council; the United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS); the humanitarian community in Sudan; and donors," have become actively involved in trying to restore the natural rights of life and liberty to the people directly effected by the Darfur crisis.
Source- http://www.savedarfur.org
Question #2
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is one of the strongest epidemics sweeping its way through the U.S. military today. Yet, people continue to enlist into the armed forces to serve and benefit their country. Even with the startling statistics that "1 in 8 returning soldiers suffers from PSTD," and the lengthy list of miserable symptoms such as "flashbacks, nightmares, feelings of detachment, irritability, trouble concentrating and sleeplessness," soldiers are willing to fight for their country. They are willing to sacrifice their life, not only during their time of duty but also after the fact. If they do survive their service, they risk spending the rest of their lives with these painful symptoms of trauma. And for what? To better and protect their nation. They put the well-being of the American nation above that of their personal well-being. This proves that civic virtue is alive and well in modern society, keeping a little piece of classical republicanism in the United States.
Source- http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/5334479/
Question #3
President Barack Obama is a member of the Federalist Party. The main priority of the Federalist party is to have a strong central government. The newly elected president is increasing the involvement of the central government in society in order to solve the problems that are currently being experienced by the citizens of the United States. The Bail Out is a perfect example. By using federal funds to bail out entire industries, President Obama is using Federalist principles. He also needs to turn to a strong government foundation to deal with other issues that are facing the United States like stabilizing foreign relations and addressing threats from overseas. This includes the war in Iraq, global terrorism, and nuclear threats at the hands of Iran. A strong central government is also necessary to complete President Obama's goal of reducing climate change and creating a better energy policy for the nation, and encouraging other nations to do the same. The Federalist Party supports the use of strong government, and so does President Obama.
Source- "Great Expectations" by David E. Sangerfrom the New York Times Upfront, January 12th, 2009
The biggest example of trying to protect natural rights in today's society can be found in the group of people that has come together in order to save the people of Darfur from the violence they have been faced with. The people of darfur are plagued with "shooting, mutilating and torturing children," as well as other citizens of Darfur, which has been carried out by groups and armed forces. There is also a strong presense of sexual violence towards the women of Sudan, and other violent acts involved with the crisis have been infringing on the natural rights of the population. People all over, including groups such as the Watchlist on Children and Armed Conflict who have been "making urgent recommendations to the authorities of the Government of National Unity (GoNU), the Government of Southern Sudan (GoSS) and the Government of the Republic of Chad; all armed groups operating in Sudan; the UN Security Council; the United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS); the humanitarian community in Sudan; and donors," have become actively involved in trying to restore the natural rights of life and liberty to the people directly effected by the Darfur crisis.
Source- http://www.savedarfur.org
Question #2
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is one of the strongest epidemics sweeping its way through the U.S. military today. Yet, people continue to enlist into the armed forces to serve and benefit their country. Even with the startling statistics that "1 in 8 returning soldiers suffers from PSTD," and the lengthy list of miserable symptoms such as "flashbacks, nightmares, feelings of detachment, irritability, trouble concentrating and sleeplessness," soldiers are willing to fight for their country. They are willing to sacrifice their life, not only during their time of duty but also after the fact. If they do survive their service, they risk spending the rest of their lives with these painful symptoms of trauma. And for what? To better and protect their nation. They put the well-being of the American nation above that of their personal well-being. This proves that civic virtue is alive and well in modern society, keeping a little piece of classical republicanism in the United States.
Source- http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/5334479/
Question #3
President Barack Obama is a member of the Federalist Party. The main priority of the Federalist party is to have a strong central government. The newly elected president is increasing the involvement of the central government in society in order to solve the problems that are currently being experienced by the citizens of the United States. The Bail Out is a perfect example. By using federal funds to bail out entire industries, President Obama is using Federalist principles. He also needs to turn to a strong government foundation to deal with other issues that are facing the United States like stabilizing foreign relations and addressing threats from overseas. This includes the war in Iraq, global terrorism, and nuclear threats at the hands of Iran. A strong central government is also necessary to complete President Obama's goal of reducing climate change and creating a better energy policy for the nation, and encouraging other nations to do the same. The Federalist Party supports the use of strong government, and so does President Obama.
Source- "Great Expectations" by David E. Sangerfrom the New York Times Upfront, January 12th, 2009
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Contemporary Constitutional Actions
Referring to your notes and text books respond to the questions:
1. Present one example from a current event that best exemplifies the Natural Rights Philosophy.
2. Explain a contemporary event which clearly depicts Classical Republicanism.
3. Is President Obama a Federalist or Anti Federalist?
Rules-no piggybacking, all events must be different
-respond with a one paragraph well -written response for each question
-cite the sources and use quotes
Due Date-2/7, 9pm
1. Present one example from a current event that best exemplifies the Natural Rights Philosophy.
2. Explain a contemporary event which clearly depicts Classical Republicanism.
3. Is President Obama a Federalist or Anti Federalist?
Rules-no piggybacking, all events must be different
-respond with a one paragraph well -written response for each question
-cite the sources and use quotes
Due Date-2/7, 9pm
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