Change is Good...Right?

This will be the start of the new threads for 3rd quarter. It's impossible to know what the future brings. There could be prosperity around the corner, or we could be plagued by disaster. New technologies could improve our lives, or strike fear in the hearts of the people. My point is that no one knows what the future holds so how could our government possibly foresee things? The answer of course is that they can't. Our Constitution is a living document because we can make changes depending on changes over time. So, we are adaptable to modern times. Which leads me to what I want you to think about.

Question to Consider:

Why is it essential that a government be able to adapt over time? Give examples of situations where governments might need to make changes.

Rule with an Iron Fist

This past week you have discovered firsthand what it's like to try and accomplish things in a non-structured environment. Those were the problems with the Articles of Confederation. It was a weak government because the states had all the power and there was no central authority. It's understandable why they set it up that way, however, because they just fought a revolution to get away from a tyrannical government. Through this past week's experience you now understand why a strong central government is important and necessary.

Questions to Consider:

What is the right balance of power between having a strong central government, and having that government be too powerful? What steps did our creators take to ensure the government could not overstep its bounds and rule with an iron fist? Do you think our current government has grown too powerful? If yes, how so?

Everyone Roots for the Underdog

This post is kind of a fun one. Yes, you still get your extra credit! We just learned about how the Americans defeated the powerful nation of Great Britain to win their independence. It was one of the greatest upsets in history, as America was a huge underdog given the disadvantages they faced. I'd like to know some of your thoughts on other major upsets in the history of mankind.

Questions to Consider:
What do you think is the greatest upset of all time by a big time underdog? It can be history related, sports related, or anything else you consider an upset. Have fun with this one!

American Revolution Test Review

Study your notes, and know them inside and out! Try and learn things in context instead of rote memorization. Think of it as a story. If you're confused about anything ask away!

Who's the Sheep and Who's the Shepherd?

Teachers will harp on students about responsibility until the end of time. They are constantly telling kids to get their homework done on time, get to class, bring your materials, and the list goes on. When we take a step back and look at government, citizens are always harping on them as well. Ken Blanchard, prominent businessman and author of "The One Minute Manager" once said, "Too many leaders act as if the sheep...their people...are there for the benefit of the shepherd, not that the shepherd has responsibility for the sheep. In learning about the American Revolution, it seems that England lost sight of what a shepherd is supposed to do.

Questions to Consider:
What are the responsibilities of a government? What roles must they serve? What rights of change do citizens have if their government is not assuming these responsibilities?

Chapter 6 Test Review

If you hit a snag while studying, never fear! Post any and all inquiries here, and I'll get to them as soon as I can. Remember, I have a dinner tonight so I won't answer right away. Be patient, and good luck tomorrow!

Right On!

Philosopher John Locke argued that people have natural born rights. Rights that every human being on the planet should have. He further went on to state that government's job is to uphold and protect these rights. The English colonists living in America were beginning to think their rights were being violated. Eventually, they would choose to revolt in favor of a government that would protect these rights.

Questions to Consider:

What exactly do you feel are our natural born rights? What rights should everyone have no matter what? Do you think our government today upholds and protects these rights? Why or why not?