The Basics
Below you will find short, simple articles that answer basic questions about the Constitution and our American form of government.
Why do we need government?
We need government because people are not perfect. Because they are not perfect they do things that affect the freedoms and safety of those around them. Some people choose to physically harm others or to infringe upon their God given rights. Some people refuse to respect the property of those around them. Some people […]
What is the proper role of government?
The proper role of government is to prevent people from injuring or destroying the peace of others. Specifically it is to protect its citizens from those who would try to limit, or take away, their right to life, liberty and property. A proper government is set up by the people and receives its powers from […]
Where does government get its power?
Where does government get its power? God gave to each person his moral agency or freedom of choice. That agency allows each person to choose for themselves how they will live their lives. The ability to choose is an essential part of God’s plan for His children. When the ability to choose is taken from […]
What type of government do we have?
When asked what type of government we have, most Americans would reply that we have a democracy. Others would say that we have a democratic republic. And there would be some who would say that we live in a republic. Many would argue that there is little difference between a democracy and a republic and […]
Why is our republican type of government best?
Why is our republican type of government best? As we learned in the answer to a previous question, we have a republican form of government. Because we have a written constitution we call it a constitutional republic. One reason that a republican form of government is best is because it provides the greatest protection for […]
Why do we need a written constitution?
We need a written constitution to protect our rights. How does the Constitution do this? The Constitution outlines how laws are to be made. It is a slow and careful process that involves the House of Representatives, the Senate, and the President. The process helps prevent the government from making quick and unwise decisions in […]