Revolution and Origins of the Constitution

John Adams, “Thoughts on Government”

What is the purpose of gov’t and how is this secured?

On what foundation should gov’t be established?  What shouldn’t be the foundation of gov’t?

What is only real good gov’t?  Why?

Why is a representative assembly best to make laws?  How does he describe it?

What is wrong about a single assembly?

What frame or form of gov’t does he support and how does he justify it?

What ideas or suggestions does he offer to help make the gov’t as democratic and effective as possible?

In what ways are constitutions good for society?

Notice last section on limits of a national gov’t if it becomes necessary to create one.