What is the Constitution?

Is a set of rules that authoritatively establishes both the structure & fundamental principles of a political regime

Constitutions: definition & function

1. Empowers: who or what exercises power

Legislative, Executive, Judicial

2. Divides Power: Unitary vs. federal

3. Limits Power

Our Constitution = The Rules We Live By

What is the constitution? The law is the set of rules that we

live by.

The Constitution is the highest law. It belongs to the United States for example. It belongs to all citizens (Americans).

The Constitution Is a written document stating the

fundamental rules by which a political system is governed.

Political scientists define the word a the rules and customs by which a government conducts it’s affairs.

Thus, almost all nations have constitutions since they operate according to some set of rules.

Constitution cont. In the modern world, nearly every

nation has a written constitution, and it is supposed to establish the forms, institutions, and limits of government and set guidelines for balancing minority and majority interests.

But, not all function that way, political scientists learn to study what is actually practiced not only what is written.

The Constitution

Says how the government works. It creates the President. It creates the Congress or

Parliament. It creates the Supreme Court.

Our Rights The Constitution lists some of the

most important rights. Rights are things that all people

have just because they are alive.

By listing the rights as part of the Constitution they are made special.

Rights

You have the right to be treated equally.

You have the right to think for yourself

It lets you go to the church that you wish.

It lets you gather with your friends to talk.

Rights cont.

It makes sure you can read newspapers.

It keeps the laws from being too hard.

It gives rules for the police. It also protects your home.

The purpose of a constitution

They provide the symbolic function of putting in writing a statement of national ideals – values, ideals & goals. (differ from one country to another).

1. A statement of national ideals

2- Formalizes the structure of government

They formalize the structure of government (separation of powers).

The constitutions divides authority and responsibilities among various branches of government; it also limits the power of each branch.

3- Establishes the legitimacy of Government.

They attempt to justify the government’s right to govern.

(legitimacy)Many nations will not recognize a new state until it has a written constitution, which is a sign of permanence and responsibility.

Dangers of Changing Constitutions:-

it is a sign of instability and indicates that no constitution has rooted itself into the hearts and minds of the people.

What are amendments?

An amendment is a change to the constitution of a nation or a state.

Amendments require a special procedure different from that used for enacting ordinary laws.