Neoclassical Liberal Democratic Theory and the American Constitution
Over past centuries there have been many different opinions, philosophies and approaches to government and politics demonstrated throughout the world. As time continues and humanity evolves, these approaches and opinions often change, yet their root philosophy, or ideological foundations, often remain. A political ideology can be defined as, “ a science of ideas: the study of the origins, evolution and nature of ideas… the application of human reason to economic, social and political changes”[1]. This notion of a classic ideology influencing modern government is not an exception for that of the United States. Through the study of the “Father of the Constitution,”[2] James Madison, it is most evident that this document he created was shaped around an ideology greatly influenced by classical political philosopher, John Locke. Madison incorporates Lockean philosophies of natural law and role of government with a democratized systematic approach, thus establishing a Constitution largely based upon the ideology of the Neoclassical Liberal Democratic Theory. The influence of this ideology is evident within three fundamental aspects of the American Constitution: the division of powers and federalism, the notion of checks and balances, and the process of the judicial review. Locke’s natural law supports the notion that individual freedom is an essential right, while his opinion of the role of government, in its most vital duty, is to serve, represent and protect the people. Madison, however, did not agree with Locke’s vision of human nature, denying his opinion in that humanity is generally good. Conversely, Madison did not trust the public, understanding human nature to be selfish, aggressive and unchangeable. Still, such as in Locke’s natural law, Madison believed that people had the right to some sort of self government and therefore aspired to create a government, “… guided by an enlightened and benevolent elected aristocracy, that would protect the interests of the