Optimism mixed with realism

                The forces of history presented the founding fathers with a unique opportunity to start the world all over again, to learn from the mistakes of the old world and to implement a radical experiment. The word ‘experiment’ is entirely appropriate because the American Constitution effectively tests out the concepts of representative government and republicanism within the boundaries of how the political world was understood at the time (in that ‘liberty’ was exclusively associated with white male land-owners). That said; the Constitution was tempered by a skeptical stance on the corrupting influence of power. The American Constitution therefore reflects a stimulating mix of both genuine optimism and healthy realism about politicians.

                The optimistic streak within the Constitution is perhaps best exemplified in the phrase “pursuit of happiness.” No other country had ever used such a stridently positive tone, and no other country has done so since. This sense of optimism is one of the more appealing characteristics of the American people. Regardless of one's view of his administration, Obama’s campaign slogan from 2008 (“yes, we can”) resonated with the American citizens in a way that people in many other countries would find less convincing. This inherent optimism springs from being part of a country that is, in John Winthrop’s inspiring words; the city on the Hill.

Having offered these glowing observations, it must be accepted that the Constitution is also tempered by a very negative appraisal of how power corrupts. Men were viewed not as earthly angels full of virtue but as demons full of vice. Most notably, the Constitution seeks to ensure sufficient checks and balances upon those who might exercise power (what the political scientist Francis Fukuyama calls a “vetocracy”). Each branch of government has the ability to greatly limit the power of another. The separation of powers is also relevant here. The founding fathers were so fearful of tyrannical rule by the majority that they banned nationwide referendums and stipulated that elections should be held at staggered intervals in order to prevent one party dominating the various levels of governance. Each of the three branches has enumerated powers within their own specific remit. Even the world’s most powerful man is heavily constrained by the powers of the legislature and the judiciary. That said; the Head of State has been adroit at finding ways around the Constitution – at times ably assisted by Congress during periods of unified government. This was particularly notable during the imperial presidency era from FDR to LBJ, although examples can also be found from recent administrations under George 'Dubya' Bush and Barack Obama.