Framed for Posterity: The Enduring Philosophy of the Constitution
"A wonderful discussion of fundamental ideas that animate the Constitution."--Jeffrey K. Tulis, author ofThe Rhetorical President"With the good sense and keen judgment for which he is so well known, Ralph Ketcham has compiled an elegant primer of the first principles of the Constitution, in the process explaining how a Bill of Rights that was at first an afterthought to the Constitution could also express much of its original and essential meaning. Taking issue with those who read the Constitution and its declaration of rights as either a bundle of specific provisions or a statement of airy generalities, Ketcham fashions a powerful argument for treating the framers' commitment to fundamental rights expansively."--Jack N. Rakove, author ofJames Madison and the Creation of the American Republic"Thoughtfully argued and gracefully written, this is a valuable contribution to the civic education of small-d democrats and small-r republicans. Ketcham brings historical depth and philosophical perspective to contemporary constitutional concerns about rights, responsibilities, and freedom. This readable and thought-provoking book is accessible to students and specialists alike, and 'must' reading for both."--Terence Ball, author ofTransforming Political Discourse: Political Theory and Critical Conceptual History