
The Classical Foundations of the American Constitution
Prevailing Wisdom
David J. Bederman(Author)
Cambridge University Press
1st Edition
Published on 17. February 2011
Book
Paperback/Softback
352 pages
978-0-521-18761-9 (ISBN)
Description
The framers of the American Constitution were substantially influenced by ancient history and classical political theory, as exemplified by their education, the availability of classical readings, and their inculcation in classical republican values. This volume explores how the framing generation deployed classical learning to develop many of the essential structural aspects of the Constitution: federalism, separation of powers, a bicameral legislature, independent courts, and the war and foreign relations powers. Also examined are very contemporary constitutional debates, for which there were classical inspirations, including sovereign immunity, executive privilege, line-item vetoes, and the electoral college. Combining techniques of intellectual history, classical studies, and constitutional interpretation, this book makes a unique contribution to our understanding of contemporary constitutionalism.
Reviews / Votes
"...this fine book is essential reading for anyone concerned with the origins of the Constitution or the intellectual world that produced it."--Law and Politics Book Review "In this innovative and erudite study, Bederman surveys the influence of classical works on the American founding generation. A convincing argument for the Founding Fathers' use of classical ideas is lucidly advance. The book offers a more historically accurate and philosophically coherent argument than other recent volumes on the topic...The author defends the importance of original intent, with limitations, while concluding that the Founders' use of ancient sources was "instrumental and pragmatic."...Highly Recommended..."
--H.L. Cheek Jr., CHOICE
More details
Language
English
Place of publication
Cambridge
United Kingdom
Target group
Professional and scholarly
Product notice
Paperback (trade)
Illustrations
Worked examples or Exercises
Dimensions
Height: 229 mm
Width: 152 mm
Thickness: 21 mm
Weight
572 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-521-18761-9 (9780521187619)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions

E-Book
05/2008
1st Edition
Cambridge University Press
€38.49
Available for download

Book
02/2008
Cambridge University Press
€150.70
Shipment within 15-20 days
Person
Content
1. The framers' classical education and world view; 2. Classical political models and the founders; 3. Constitution-making and ancient history; 4. Modern resonances; 5. The classical Constitution.