Constitutions of civil government are not to be framed…
“Constitutions of civil government are not to be framed upon a calculation of existing exigencies, but upon a combination of these with the probable exigencies of ages, according to the natural and tried course of human affairs. Nothing, therefore, can be more fallacious than to infer the extent of any power, proper to be lodged in the national government, from an estimate of its immediate necessities.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Constitutions should be built on enduring principles, not fleeting crises.
In simple terms: Foundations need timeless guidance, not short‑term fixes.
Key Takeaway
Design laws for long‑term stability.
Themes
governance
principles
future‑proofing
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legislative drafting
- policy reform
- educational curricula
- public debates
Key Concepts
constitutional theory
political philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How balance immediate needs with lasting values?
- What safeguards prevent short‑termism?
A Different Perspective
Current emergencies may force shortcuts.