Intellectual Origins of the U.S. Constitution

The Preamble to the U.S. Constitution begins with the phrase "We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union ..." As one reads this phrase, it is difficult to overlook the significance of the words "...in order to form a more perfect union ..." What did the Framers of the Constitution mean by this proposition? Were they acknowledging the imperfection of their deeds? After all, the Preamble begins with the word, "We," but as Wootton (2003) points out, the Framers' idea of "We" was far from perfect. Gaining an understanding of the intellectual origins of the U.S. Constitution will provide a foundation on which to build knowledge about American politics, public policies, and political institutions in America.

For this Discussion, read Federalist Papers No. 1, 10, and 51, along with Anti-Federalist Centinel No. 1, referenced in this week's Learning Resources. Analyze a selection of Federalist and Anti-Federalist Papers, and note evidence of the spirit of the Framers of the Constitution, as described through these writings, in contemporary models of democracy as described by Hudson (2017).

Post two examples of how the spirit of Federalists No. 1, 10, 51 and Centinel No. 1 was captured in the Constitution. What relationships can be observed between these intellectual origins and Hudson's (2017) "Models of Democracy"? Provide a current example of how concepts discussed in the Federalist/Anti-Federalist papers are seen in American politics. Finally, explain the importance of understanding this information as a leader in public policy and public administration.

Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources.