Can the constitution of America be overlooked?

[Aurielius]

I think every so often we should have a look at the constitutions of all countries. It really truly amazes me that the constitution of america still works today, but even contemporary as it is, it needs a few modernisations that I wont bother mentiong here so as not to embolden/enrage zealots.

 

As for the original question, it really depends on who is in charge. I really like to think that a government would act in an emergancy, rather than letting their nation die to hold to an ideal-no matter how noble that ideal is. But it really depends on who is in power, An older, more traditionalist leader may refuse to go against the constitution, whereas a younger leader may simply react and worry about the constitution afterwoulds.

 

It seems that as long as the Constitution goes in directions you approve it's OK but when it doesn't its so much paper written long ago and not relevant. I on the other hand see it as a carefully crafted document designed to prevent the usurpation of power by any one group whether it is tyranny of the majority or the centralization of power in an elite. Defense of the Constitution's ideals is hardly zealotry, generations of Americans have died protecting that apex of governing principles. Modernizations can easily be achieved through amendments a process laid out by the authors of the document, the Wiemar Republic had a leader who subscribed to your theory of executive fiat over constitutional imperatives. The Constitution has a remedy for that "younger leader" who decides to disregard it, it's called impeachment.

[grannywils]

I'm with Aurielius on this one. Never has a document been so carefully crafted as to allow for it future modification when necessary. I am still in awe of this country's forefather's. Thomas Jefferson as well as the others must have had second sight, and sometimes I wonder what they would think of us today.

[Maxwell the Fool]

For real foresight, check out Washington's farewell address. Our country is finding all of those perils which he foretold... O.o