The Confines of Modern Constitutionalism

32 Pages Posted: 21 Nov 2007

See all articles by David T. Ritchie

David T. Ritchie

Mercer University - Walter F. George School of Law

Abstract

As a legal, political, and social movement modern constitutionalism has had an enormous impact internationally for over 200 years. As a concept modern constitutionalism is derived from enlightenment rationalism and political liberalism, and plays an important part in a certain world-view that dominates in Western Europe and the United States. This world-view posits a model of constitutionalism that is suitable for all people, in all places, and under all circumstances. The terms of modern constitutionalism, then, bear the hallmarks of a supposed universality that European and American scholars presume. In this article I discuss the terms of modern constitutionalism, the foundations for these terms, and the implications of accepting these terms uncritically.

Keywords: modern constitutionalism, constitutionalism, enlightenment, rationalism, liberalism

Suggested Citation

Ritchie, David T., The Confines of Modern Constitutionalism. Pierce Law Review, Vol. 3, No. 1, 2004, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1031529

David T. Ritchie (Contact Author)

Mercer University - Walter F. George School of Law ( email )

1021 Georgia Ave
Macon, GA 31207-0001
United States

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