6) Contrasting the Declaration with Classical Political Philosophy I

American Constitutional Principles
Course 1: The Declaration of Independence and the Purposes of Government
Class 6: Contrasting the Declaration with Classical Political Philosophy I
Christopher Wolfe, professor of constitutional law and former co-director of the Thomas International Center
Course Description:
This course will explore the principles of the American Constitution. In the first part of the course we will examine the Declaration of Independence, because this document clearly lays out the purposes of the Constitution. Next, we will discuss the basic principles of the original American Constitution as it came forth from the framers of the first part of American History. These are the four premises of republicanism: federalism, separation of powers, constitutionalism, and the extended republic. Special attention will be placed on how these doctrines reflect the aims of government established by the Declaration. Finally, we will study the ways in which these principles have changed throughout American History.
Topic 3: The Declaration and Classical Political Philosophy
The political ideals set forth in the Declaration of Independence betray the clear influence such modern political philosophers as John Locke and Thomas Hobbes. The approach of these philosophers will be contrasted with classical political philosophy, including ancient philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle and medieval philosophers such as Augustine and Thomas Aquinas. The lesson plan will include two lectures.American Constitutional Principles
Course 1: The Declaration of Independence and the Purposes of Government
Class 6: Contrasting the Declaration with Classical Political Philosophy I
Christopher Wolfe, professor of constitutional law and former co-director of the Thomas International Center
Course Description:
This course will explore the principles of the American Constitution. In the first part of the course we will examine the Declaration of Independence, because this document clearly lays out the purposes of the Constitution. Next, we will discuss the basic principles of the original American Constitution as it came forth from the framers of the first part of American History. These are the four premises of republicanism: federalism, separation of powers, constitutionalism, and the extended republic. Special attention will be placed on how these doctrines reflect the aims of government established by the Declaration. Finally, we will study the ways in which these principles have changed throughout American History.
Topic 3: The Declaration and Classical Political Philosophy
The political ideals set forth in the Declaration of Independence betray the clear influence such modern political philosophers as John Locke and Thomas Hobbes. The approach of these philosophers will be contrasted with classical political philosophy, including ancient philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle and medieval philosophers such as Augustine and Thomas Aquinas. The lesson plan will include two lectures.