Summary: Students will build individual and class definitions of Classical Republicanism and Natural Rights Philosophy. Then, using an academic secondary source, students will refine their definitions and sharpen their understanding. Finally, students will identify the elements of both Classical Republicanism and Natural Rights Philosophy within the text of the United States Constitution.
Overarching Questions:
- CIVICS: Have the concepts of liberty, justice and/or equality changed during the time period? If so, how and what has been the impact?
- CIVICS: How well does the government balance individual rights and the common good, including the need to maintain order, safety, and a healthy environment, during this time period?
- CIVICS: Have individuals and groups influenced public policy during this time period? If so, how and what has been the impact?
NJ Student Learning Standards for Social Studies:
- 6.1.12.CivicsPI.2.a: Prepare and articulate a point of view about the importance of individual rights, separation of powers, and governmental structure in the United States Constitution.
Links to Lesson: Natural Rights and Classical Republicanism in the U.S. Constitution
Supplemental Links:
- Which philosophy studied by the Founders was most influential on American political thought? - YouTube
- How have natural rights philosophy & classical republicanism influenced ideas about citizen's rights? - YouTube
- An Introduction to the Political Philosophy of the Constitution Professor Duane Smith, Center for Civic Education
- US Constitution with Amendments-US Senate