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Cover of WE THE PEOPLE
4.40

Based on 48 Goodreads ratings

WE THE PEOPLE

by Lepore’s lights, the Founders intended for the document to be changed in order to meet the needs of the day, trusting in the Enlightenment premise that “the human mind is driven by reason.” Article V, Lepore continues, is “a sleeping giant”: In it the Founders specified that change could come in one of two ways, the first being a congressional proposal, the second a convention of the states, with a “double supermajority” of votes for approval, two\u002Dthirds of Congress and three\u002Dquarters of the states. Although there have been flurries of amendments—including the first 10, yielding the Bill of Rights—it has been nearly 40 years since the last constitutional convention was held, even as, Lepore calculates, members of Congress proposed 2,100 amendments between 1980 and 2000. Part of the problem is congressional gridlock, a feature of government since the days of President Reagan\u003B another is what Lepore considers the false doctrine of originalism—which, she writes provocatively, “arose from the failure of conservatives to change the Constitution by democratic means.” Lepore presses her argument with numerous case studies, including the difficult passage of an amendment to allow direct election of senators (formerly appointed by governors), the argument over an income tax (and one that progressively taxed the rich more than the poor), the failed adoption of the Equal Rights Amendment, and a longtime favorite that has yet to come about: the abolition of the aristocratically inspired Electoral College."

Book Details

Publisher:Of
Published:2024-01-01
Pages:768
Format:paperback
Language:English
ISBN:9781631496

Reading Info

Age Range:12-18

About This Book

This timely exploration of American civics and government offers young readers an accessible introduction to the foundations of democracy, from the Constitution's creation to modern civic engagement....

Our Review

This timely exploration of American civics and government offers young readers an accessible introduction to the foundations of democracy, from the Constitution's creation to modern civic engagement. Through clear explanations and engaging examples, the book breaks down complex political concepts into digestible segments that middle and high school students can readily understand. The content thoughtfully addresses how our government functions across executive, legislative, and judicial branches while emphasizing citizens' roles and responsibilities.

What sets this political science resource apart is its balanced approach to both historical context and contemporary relevance, making civics education feel immediate rather than abstract. Teen readers will appreciate how the material connects constitutional principles to current events and their own potential impact as future voters and community members. Parents and educators seeking substantive yet approachable government resources will find this particularly valuable for fostering informed young citizens who grasp both their rights and responsibilities within our democratic system.

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