American Government A Compilation of Philosophies
Many factors have contributed to our American form of government. These factors include influences made by ancient forms of government as well as the contributions of many noted philosophers. ... One of the philosophers whose ideas influenced our early form of government was Plato. ... The individual, in our form of government, upon placing a vote for his ‘candidate’ is in reality placing a vote for a representative (or elector) to the Electoral College, who then actually selects the president. ... Another philosopher whose ideas also influenced our form of government was Aristotle. ... Slavery, which was at one time approved and sanctioned by our early form of government, can also be traced back to the ideas of Aristotle on this subject. The abolition of slavery for the most part ended the influence of Aristotle’s ideas upon our practice of government but it did not end his influence on individuals who continued to believe in slavery and a ‘god given’ right that white males are “superior” and therefore deserve to dictate to those deemed to be inferior. Niccolo Machiavelli was an Italian philosopher who has also influenced the practice of our form of government. ... ” (Frost, 193) is an idea which influenced, in my opinion, our government’s treatment of the Japanese during World War II. ... The government view that it can set aside the constitution, if deemed necessary is one that can also be found today in regards to the governments’ response to the terrorist attacks of September 11th. ... This influenced our form of government by limiting the right of the “king” or ruler, by the formation of the three branches of government.