America does not confer liberty upon the individual. America realizes that the individual possesses the right to liberty, and the whole structure of the American government is framed with the special purpose of protecting each individual in his natural liberty.[15]
Now there is no danger to the liberty of any one except from two sources—the wrong of a fellowman, or the wrong of the government, which in this country is a mere organization of men and women and children. Here we see emphasized the necessity for law in order to protect the liberty of the individual. Government is organized to protect individuals in their liberties. This protection is furnished by laws enacted by the people to protect the weak against the strong, the good against the evil; and in this country the same law applies to every individual. There are no special laws for special classes; every one is equally interested in having these laws as just and fair as possible. Liberty under law is the privilege of doing everything one wishes to do, except in so far as his acts may interfere in some way with like privileges of those who are about him in society.
Therefore always keep in mind that the great achievement of those who founded America was the establishment of a Nation where liberty would have a home. Of course liberty could not be fully established in this country until the Nation was fully established, until the Constitution was adopted, until laws were enacted; but from the adoption of the Constitution [pg 030] to the present time the people have enacted laws from time to time, and still enact laws, the better to protect every man in his liberty and to enlarge his opportunities in life.
Now in order to understand clearly how the liberties of the people are protected through our government, we must understand the nature and form of our government; and this subject we must take up at our next meeting.
ELEMENTARY QUESTIONS
1. What is your idea of the right to “life”? Does it mean that no one shall ever be sentenced to death for murder?
2. What is your idea of the right to “property”? Does this mean that everyone shall be wealthy? Does it mean that everyone shall own his own home?
3. What is your idea of the right to “pursuit of happiness”? Does this mean that everyone can do as he pleases?
4. Why does the judge say that liberty is the most valuable thing in the world? What would you trade for it?
5. Note the dangers to liberty that the judge points out. What are they?