Description: The Preamble of the Constitution has its own particular grammar. In that singular sentence We, the People define what we want from government: Justice, domestic Tranquility, a common defence, the general Welfare and the Blessings of Liberty. The rest of the Constitution provides the means to achieve those noble ends. It's not enough to say what we want. We have to design a government that saves us from ourselves.

This presentation considers whether or not the Constitution is up to the task. This is not a new question. Some antebellum abolitionists referred to the Constitution as "an agreement with Hell." Others said it was the only effective tool against the wickedness of political leaders. Without the Constitution the People have no power against the State. Finally, we'll ask ourselves how we might better dwell in the Constitution in order to achieve a "more perfect union."

This Presentation is supported with funds from the Vermont Humanities Council.