After having read both the preamble to the United States Constitution and the United States Declaration of Independence, one can clearly see where the government of the United States derives its power and the potential for abuse of that power as delineated in the reasons for seeking emancipation from British rule. The power of the government is derived from the people in democratic societies. This power is imparted to the individuals chosen to represent all of the people. In the role of representatives of the people, it is prudent that the legislators seek to act in the best interest of the majority of the people and to do so with its input.
This power should not be taken lightly, nor should it be abused. The Declaration of Independence speaks directly to the propensity of governments abusing this power and blatantly disregarding the wishes of the people.
In examining the Declaration of Independence, one can clearly see the delineation of infractions a government can commit. A portion of the Declaration refers to the tyrannical actions of the monarchy in Britain at the time. It states, “Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.” The facts submitted in support of the tyrannical actions include:
- The restriction of trade.
- Imposition of unfair taxes.
- Infringement on civil rights by preventing the proper trial in cases where a crime has been alleged.
- Interfering in the pursuit of happiness.
Another way in which a government can abuse its power can be seen in the act of blatantly disregarding the serenity and sanctity of one’s land. This is evident in the Declaration when the writers refer to the action of the King by saying, “He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to complete the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.” This action proves to be extremely disruptive to the lives and livelihood of those living in the colonies. It was felt that by virtue of their geographical distance, these actions should not be undertaken.
One of the most fundamental and philosophically based statements on the value of life can be seen in a statement made by Socrates. He states that “the unexamined life is not worth living.” This speaks directly to the worth of an individual’s life. In order for an individual to conceptualize their role in life, it is prudent that they examine their life. Such an examination would serve to quantify their ability to be beneficial to society. Essentially, the first step in establishing a life that proves to be of benefit to others, it is prudent that an individual first look at the elements of their life and ascertain whether it is a life of public service.
Socrates held the belief that a life worth living is one that is lived for the service of others and the only way to assure that the goal of public service is met is by retrospectively examining one’s life and then impacting life-altering changes.