Their usual defects.—We have flourished so wonderfully under our system of government that we naturally have a great reverence for our national and state constitutions. So far has this feeling gone that a large number of people seem to fancy that there is some magic in the very word constitution. As a consequence state constitutions are usually too long; they contain too many miscellaneous provisions. Most of these relate to transient or petty matters which, if made affairs for public action at all, should be left to legislation. Changes in the constitution weaken our respect for it. Rarely should anything go into that great charter which has not stood the test of time, unless it has the promise of endurance as a necessary safeguard of the rights and liberties of the people.
BILLS OF RIGHTS.
These usually assert or guarantee the following:
Republican Principles.—That governments are instituted by the people and for their benefit; that all persons are equal before the law; that no title of nobility shall be granted.
Freedom of Conscience.—That there shall be perfect religious freedom, not, however, covering immoral practices; that there shall be no established or state church; that no religious test shall be required for the performance of any public function.
Freedom of Speech.—That any one may freely think, and publish his opinions, on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of this right.
Freedom of Assembly.—That the people may peaceably assemble to discuss matters of public interest and to petition the government for redress of grievances. This, of course, does not permit meetings designed to arrange for the commission of crime.
Freedom of Person.—That there shall be no slavery; nor imprisonment for debt, except in cases of fraud; nor unwarranted searches or seizures of persons or property; that no general warrants shall be issued; that the writ of habeas corpus shall not be suspended, except in certain emergencies; that persons may freely move from place to place.
Security of Property.—That private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation therefor, previously paid or secured; that to prevent feudal tenure of land, long leases of agricultural land shall not be made, in most states the longest permitted term being twenty-one years.
Right to bear Arms.—That the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.