Lesson 3: What did the founders learn about Republican government from the ancient world. Pages 13 - 18

1. Describe the major characteristics of republican govt. 2 1. Describe the major characteristics of republican govt. 2. Demonstrate an understanding of civic virtue and why it is important. 3. Explain Montesquieu’s about the importance and value of mixed government 4. Explain how James Madison adapted the ideas of classical republicanism to meet the needs of the govt. in America.

Ideas from classical republicanism Civic Virtue Moral Education Small, uniform communities

Civic Virtue Set aside what is best for you, and do what is best for the country Can you give some examples?

Moral Education Civic virtue does not come naturally so it is the responsibility of the govt. to teach morality they did so with gods and goddess

Small, uniform communities Necessary if people are to know can care for each other According to ancient Rome, people must very much alike… diversity should not be tolerated… Communities should have an established religion do you agree with this? Why or why not

Understanding the differences between natural rights Philosophy and classical republicanism You will be given a chart to fill out… please answer the rest of the spaces

Compare the two 1. Stressed the rights of the individual to life, liberty and property 1. Stressed promoting the common good above the rights of the individual

Compare the two 2. Stressed that human nature is such that individual behavior is motivated by self-interest. 2.Stressed that individuals should be motivated by civic virtue

Compare the two 3. Stressed that society is a collection of individuals, each sharing the same right to pursue his or her own welfare 3. Limited ind. rights to privacy, belief, expression and opportunities to read, think & earn money. If people had freedom to do such things they might stop being reliable and fully dedicated to the common good

Compare the two 4. Stressed that people’s opportunities should not be limited by the situation or group into which they are born 4.Discouraged diversity of beliefs, wealth, and ways of life. Stressed small communities where people know and care for each other

Compare the two 5. Stressed that the main purpose of govt. should be to protect natural rights. The state existed to serve the interests of the individual 5. Stressed avoiding the formation of factions or interest groups that might endanger the common good. Citizens should participate fully in the govt. to promote the common good

Compare the two 6. To preserve natural rights, govt. guarantee specific rights, such as civil rights (freedom of conscience and privacy) and political rights (vote, run for office) 6. Stressed the importance of political rights such as voting and expressing ideas and opinions about govt., and serving in public office

Govt. organized to promote common good? Montesquieu advocated a system that divided and balanced the power

James Madison “Father of the Constitution” How to get a democracy in the states… representative democracy Idea of separation of powers System of checks and balances