The American Constitution and Its Provenance

(Paperback)

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In this comprehensive collection of essays representing a lifetime of scholarship, distinguished political scientist Richard Stevens examines the fundamental principles of the American Constitutional order. Stevens discusses the Constitution's roots in Renaissance and Enlightenment political philosophy, and evaluates several major twentieth-century constitutional commentators. With a focus on the core of constitutional principle, Stevens critiques such views as that the Constitution founds a mixed regime, or is rooted in Christianity, or is a 'living constitution,' or is to be interpreted in the light of a 'higher law background.' Broad in scope and penetrating in analysis, this book is essential reading for students and scholars of constitutional law, American political thought, and American history.

Reviews

Richard Stevens' collection of essays reflects over forty years of thoughtful inquiry on the relationship between philosopy and political life. His views can, in the best sense of the term, be described as radical in their rethinking of the foundations of the American political and constitutional order. The range of his learning and the care with which he presents it should inspire young scholars to pick up on his ideas and apply them to the problems and dilemmas that they will face in the twenty-first century. -- Jerome J. Hanus, American University
An occasion for celebration. -- Paul Rahe, Hillsdale College
Few have written of America with such a judicious mixture of generosity, hardheadedness, and wit. Students of the Constitution and of political thought will wish to place this book on their shelves next to the collected essays of Walter Berns, Martin Diamond, and Herbert J. Storing. -- Matthew J. Franck, Radford University
Following in the tradition of Martin Diamond and Herbert Storing, Stevens' collection of essays broadens and deepens our understanding of the American regime, opening our minds to its great perfections, but never mindless of its imperfections. It is truly a seminal study. -- Morton J. Frisch, Northern Illinois University

Author Bio

Richard G. Stevens is a retired former professor of political science at the National Defense University. He is the author of Frankfurter and Due Process, and the co-editor, with Morton Frisch, of American Political Thought and The Political Thought of American Statesmen.