08/09/2025
Hi Friends, I wrote this a few years ago for a college paper. In the present turmoil, we need to reassure ourselves why we have a government and how lucky we are to be free.
Is some type of government necessary for human beings? Why or why not?
The evolution of government systems, from the early family groups and tribes to the sophisticated Greek democratic state and the Roman Republic, is a testament to the fascinating journey of human history. This progression culminated in the modern political theory developed by eminent thinkers like Locke, Hobbes, Rousseau, and Montesquieu.
Throughout history, we have witnessed the power of collective action in overthrowing tyranny and establishing systems that benefit the many. The concept of a social contract, where people agree to self-govern, has been a powerful tool in this struggle for justice and equality.
John Locke, a figure in British history, believed in natural rights delivered by God, including Life, Liberty, and property. As humans, we have always strived to follow or lead, so it is only natural for society to eventually develop structures for self-governing. The Magna Carta was created to protect the rights of Barons but was later accepted by Parliament to represent all freemen. This was a major transition from absolute rule to the development of the greater good for all citizens. Having said that, it is interesting that the norm of the day was only white males who owned property. American Revolutionists were heavily influenced by Lock and the rights prescribed in the Maga Carta. Still, Lock also views that some freedoms must be sacrificed in exchange for a formal government and that men create self-governance and not God.
Other Philosophers of the seventeenth century had similar and different views. Hobbs, a monarchist, wrote Leviathan, defending the absolute power of the King to keep order. He also believed all were equal and should have the right to do as they please, but they could only survive by creating a supreme authority. Montesquieu: "Believed that a state of war between nations and individuals led to governments." Essentially, through his writings, such as "The Spirit of the Laws," he implies that government is created through violence and is originally for self-protection. Rousseau believed that men are born free, yet they are chained, they have natural rights, and a King should never hold absolute power over them. He believed in a Greek form of Democracy (New England Style of Democracy). Where every vote is counted, but power should reside in more minor forms of government such as a city. All of these philosophers believe in personal rights and freedoms and that government should exist to better the greater good. This common set of principles set the foundation for the American experiment.
When you think of the American founders such as Jefferson, Madison, Henry, and Hamilton, understanding through their own studies and life experiences that goverment, the great american experiment was necessary to survive and prosper for a new nation. The Constitutional Convention, to me was a fantastic exercise in civility. I have not always found that in my own experience, yet so many men of diverse backgrounds could find compromise, agree, and ratify this incredible document that has given this nation so much. They were correct both in their arguments and in the Federalist papers, instilling powers of checks and balances and giving the government rights while retaining the sovereignty of the states. This is afforded in the "Supremacy Clause in the Constitution." I found it interesting in the letters sent by Jefferson to Madison that he felt strongly that “the present should not be held up by the past” and that he wanted a new constitution for every new generation. This would not be a bad idea if it were not impractical. As generations change, they participate in their government to reflect newer values buying into the government. Madison’s response was practical and soft, so as not to insult Jefferson.
In closing, government is necessary and essential for populations to survive, find peace, and prosper. We agree to a contract with our government and hold on to our individual and natural rights, which are tempered by giving up some freedoms to protect the many. I would argue that the United States allows more freedom than most nations, providing security, economic stability, and a safety net system that ensures we all prosper.
