Essential Questions
1.
What degree of deference should be given to the intentions of the Framers of the
Constitution in light of today’s circumstances?
A high degree of deference should be given
since the Framers of the Constitution tried to incorporate the right balance and ensure the
Constitution would remain relevant and effective in modern times.
2.
Under what circumstances would a country desire to change its governing structures?
A
country may desire to change its governing structure in the event of political instability, such as
corruption or lack of effective authority, and to improve accountability and restore public trust.
3.
What limits does executive power require?
Limits on executive power are the separation of
powers, where the executive branch cannot make laws without approval of the legislative branch.
The executive power should be subject to rule of law which means the executive branch is not
above the law and must respect the rights of individuals and institutions. Also, accountability
where the executive branch is held accountable to the people through the democratic processes.
Key Ideas and Arguments
3.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt is the only U.S. president elected for more than two terms.
Did the special circumstances of the war justify this deviation from precedent?
Yes,
because World War II had just begun, Franklin D. Roosevelt was justified in serving for more than
2 terms because the U.S. needed his leadership during this decisive period.
4.
Are there other circumstances where term limits on the president would be a
disadvantage?
Agenda execution- term limits can inhibit the president to see their policies being
executed as the next president may have different goals and policies.
5.
What is the benefit to constitutional democracies when term limits on the executive are
established?
The
benefit
of
term
limits
is
that
no
one
can
hold
executive
office
indefinitely,
helping
to
protect
democratic
principles
and
guard
against
potential
abuses
of
power.
