Foundational Texts of American Democracy
Take a look at each of the following founding documents. After reading about the founding documents please answer the Google Form for Question 2.
The Declaration of Independence
This groundbreaking document proclaimed the colonies' separation from British rule and articulated the fundamental principles of individual liberty and equality. It serves as a powerful reminder of the values that shaped the nation.
The Constitution
As the supreme law of the land, the Constitution outlines the structure of government, the distribution of powers, and the rights of citizens. Its adaptability has allowed it to remain relevant through centuries of change.
The Bill of Rights
The first ten amendments to the Constitution safeguard individual liberties and limit government power. This vital document reflects the Enlightenment ideals of personal freedom and justice, ensuring that fundamental rights are protected.
Question 2
Use the Google form to answer the question: Which Enlightenment ideas were fully adopted, and whihc were altered or limited? Explain your reasoning.
Contemporary Issues
Choose one of the following modern issues to research. Once you have researched the following issue use your findings to answer Question 3.
Government Surveillance / Privacy
Government surveillance raises the question of how much personal information the government should be allowed to collect in order to protect public safety without violating individual privacy rights.
Free Speech on Social Media
Free speech on social media challenges society to balance open expression with the need to prevent harmful, false, or discriminatory content online.
Voting Rights
Voting rights focus on ensuring that every eligible citizen can participate freely and fairly in elections without facing barriers or discrimination.
Checks and Balances in Times of Crisis
Checks and balances during a crisis test how power is shared among branches of government when quick action must be weighed against constitutional limits.
Religious Freedom
Religious feedom protects a person's right to practice or not practice any faith without interference from the government or others.
Police Powers and Civil Liberties
Police powers and civil liberties highlight the tension between the government's responsibility to maintain public order and the individual rights guaranteed to every person.
Question 3
Use the Google form to answer the question: Which Enligtenment principles could support opposing viewpoints on this issue?
