Question

write one paragraphs explaining how the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution reflect Enlightenment ideas about government. Use the following checks and balances federal system Bill of Rights

Answer 1

The Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution embody Enlightenment ideas about government through their emphasis on individual rights, the separation of powers, and the establishment of a federal system. Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke argued for the inherent rights of individuals and the necessity of government to protect those rights; these principles are reflected in the Declaration's assertion of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The Constitution institutionalizes these ideas through a system of checks and balances, ensuring that no single branch of government can exert unchecked power, thereby promoting a balanced and fair governance. Additionally, the Bill of Rights, which safeguards fundamental freedoms such as speech and religion, underscores the Enlightenment belief in protecting civil liberties against potential government overreach. Together, these documents establish a framework for a government accountable to its citizens, rooted in rationality and the recognition of individual rights, core tenets of Enlightenment philosophy.