Students should read the text and or watch the video of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas' remarks on the subject of citizenship and national identity.
Students must answer the posted questions (on this blog page) and respond to the answers of 2 other students.
C-Span video Clarence Thomas on National Identity
Read each of the following quotations from Justice Thomas’s speech, and then answer the questions that follow:
"I think that the framers and especially Madison, who gave us our Bill of Rights and Jefferson, who gave us our Declaration of Independence, they understood that for liberty to exist, the populous needed to be educated enough to understand liberty and to be able to defend liberty. They also understood that liberty was not on automatic pilot, that liberty would not exist simply because it was once started and that having won it, it was very delicate and had to be protected."
1. How would you put this phrase in your own words?
2. Do you agree with Justice Thomas that liberty is not on "automatic pilot"? Why or why not?
"I think that there is a way to disagree and these young people will learn it from us, that we can constructively say I respectfully but firmly disagree without acting out a disagreeable attitude and reaction to other people."
3. Why is the ability to "respectfully but firmly disagree" without being "disagreeable" important in a free society?
"I found it perplexing as a young man that so many of the people I knew who never made it beyond being domestics and day laborers clung tenaciously to the promises of this country. So no matter that they have been denied opportunities because of race or lack of education or other difficult circumstances, they passed on the hopes and the dreams that they once had, or that they still have and equally important, they passed on that sense of obligation that is necessary to see the dream become reality."
4. What do you think Justice Thomas means by the "promises of this country"?
5. What "obligation" is he referring to in the last sentence of this excerpt?
"Today there's much focus on our rights, indeed I think there is a proliferation of rights. I don't deny that these rights are important, they are. But I am often surprised by the virtual nobility that seems to be accorded those with grievances. At least it seems to me that more and more people are celebrated for their litany of grievances about this or that. Shouldn't there at least be equal time for our "bill of obligations" and our "bill of responsibilities"? What is required of us?"
6. How did the Founders define "rights"? Is that definition still relevant today?
7. How would you respond to Justice Thomas's assertion that there should be a "bill of obligations" or "responsibilities"?
8. What kinds of responsibilities would be included?
"That balance [between liberty and security] is in the Constitution… the balance is struck in the Constitution and in the laws that we have and my job is to figure out as best I can what those balances are, and that is imprecise I admit, but it has the benefit of being legitimate as opposed to saying I have because I’m in a robe, I can make up a new balance because I think the world has changed, that’s not my job. That’s what you elect people for and that’s what you vote for. You don’t assign that role to a new regal institution up at the Supreme Court."
9. How does Justice Thomas describe the role of a judge?
10. Why does Thomas make a distinction between the elected branches of government and the judiciary?
1. liberty has to stay safe and be directed for it to work
ReplyDelete2. Yes, you can not have liberty if no one lets you enforce it
3. So we can respect each other's differences
4. the riches and opportunities
5. the need to follow your dreams
6. things that cannot be taken away from you; no
7. i disagree
8. probably voting on every single thing
9. to find the balance of the constitution and of laws
10. because most people are cluless
1. Historical figures have said that for liberty to truly be obtained, the population as a whole would need to understand the true definition of liberty.
ReplyDelete2. Yes. If liberty were, as he puts it, an "automatic pilot," we wouldn't have had to fight for it. We don't really recognize it as a privilege, but if you look at other countries who have dictator-like governments, and then look at the US, you see how truly privileged we are.
3. If you become "disagreeable," the person with whom you are are disagreeing will become much less open to your opinion. If you find a way to respectfully disagree with that person, they might actually listen to you. (Of course, this all depends on the person, but in theory...) You'll get a lot more accomplished with people who are willing to listen.
4. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness
5. An obligation to fulfill your dreams and achieve what you want. An obligation to yourself.
6. They defined them as "unalienable."; No, however, they're more "unalienable" today than they were, say, 150 years ago. What I mean is that these rights are privileged to more people today than they were privileged to in the past.
7. I think that might be taking it a bit too far. A list of qualities every American should strive for may be enough, but not a bill.
8. Respect, charity, open-mindedness, and an obligation to stay informed with current events (to name a few)
9. To figure out the balance between the ways and the constitution, and not let one's personal opinions get in the way of the decision-making.
10. Because his job as a judge is to make sure his opinions don't get in the way of his decisions, while in elected branches of government, their opinion plays a large role in their job.
1. Liberty is easily lost and needs work to be preserved.
ReplyDelete2. I do agree with Thomas about his views on liberty. It isn't just something that comes easily in a fair manner, people need to work to keep it.
3. Disagreeing respectfully makes it easier for you to listen to others. However, disagreeing in a rude way makes your opinion seem more important to you than other viewpoints, so you wont listen as much.
4. The expectations citizens of America look forward to in this country such as the right to vote and freedom of speech.
5. The obligations he is referring to are laws or basic requirements American citizens should follow in order to get what they want from the government
6. To the founders, it was something that people were born with. The definition is more complicated today but the essence is the same.
7. I agree, if we didn't do our jobs as citizens of America then it would make others' jobs harder.
8.Things like the need for people to vote on issues more often and to take care of their personal things like taxes and bills.
9. His job depends on the state representatives that help him decide how to run the country
10. Because many people see them as the same thing.
1. It is important for the people to understand liberty and freedom, to know the meanings and understand their importance, because they are not handed to them on a silver platter. They are ideas the morals that need to be nurtured and protected by the people, who in turn cannot do this without understanding the ideas.
ReplyDelete2. Liberty is not something that will continue, grow and flourish without help from those who need it. If the people need liberty, they have to know that the liberty also needs them.
3. It is a fact that not everyone will always agree. Disagreement leads to conversation and the development of new ideas, but by acting out and forcing your opinion on others instead of listening, no one will ever learn anything.
4. Promises of this country are also called the “American Dream”. He is referring to the idea that everyone has a chance to be something as long as they try hard enough and all people have the right to liberty and freedom.
5. There is an obligation to try and work to achieve the dream, and the obligation to your country to protect it.
6. Rights are those that we our granted by the Constitution as American citizens, our civil liberties. Those these have changed in the past 27 amendments, the definition is still relevant today.
7. He is referring to the balance between civil liberties and civil order. I agree that this balance needs to be maintained, though the Justice airs more on the side of order where I would air on the side of liberties.
8. Responsibilities as a citizen include participation in government, such as voting, protection of the liberties, and responsibility to the government, like taxes.
9. He describes a judge as someone who is responsible to interpreting the balances between civil liberties and order as outlined by the constitution.
10. Thomas distinguishes between the Supreme Court and the Congress because while their different responsibilities are very separate, not many people are aware of that fact.
1. People must understand what liberty is if they wish to continue to have it. The founding fathers understood this and also understood that liberty is something that must be constantly protected
ReplyDelete2. I agree with Justice Tomas that liberty is not an automatic pilot. It is something that must be fought for and protected with great care. For liberty to exist it must be carefully preserved.
3. When you respectfully disagree you are not acting out and therefore you get your point of view across. In a free society you are allowed to speak your mind but no one will hear you if you do not act politely. I believe it is also the idea that you cannot change everybody’s mind to your way of thinking, accepting that, and still being respectful around them.
4. I think that what he means by the “promise of this country” is the American dream. The American dream, at least to me is life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
5. The obligation is to believe in yourself, the American dream, and America in general.
6. The founding fathers defined rights as the constitution. Everything they thought we as Americans should have is in the constitution. Although many aspects of the constitution are still used today, some have been changed; these are the amendments.
7. Everybody has their own beliefs of what their obligations and responsibilities as an American. That freedom is part of what makes us American to begin with. If Justice Tomas is proposing that there be an actual bill that lays out what your obligations and responsibilities are as an American then that is both trying to conform people to a certain way of thinking and reducing our rights.
8. I assume he means involvement with the government. That would probably mean everybody voting, taking part in elections, and paying taxes and bills.
9. His job is to balance the constitution, your own feeling, and laws.
10. I believe it goes back to people knowing about the government and freedom. I think this is a remark is to tie the speech back the beginning when he said that people need to be more informed.
1. That we wouldn’t have liberty unless people like Jefferson and Madison gave us something to go by and base the idea off of. That for it to exist we need to know and understand it well enough to use it to support our point of view on things. And if we want liberty to continue to exist we needed to work to keep, not just sit around.
ReplyDelete2. Yes because most thing you have to work for and wont just happen because you sit there and think or talk about it.
3. Because if you’re disagreeable there’s not guarantee on how the person would act and there would be no guarantee the person would be punish for their actions.
4. I think it means what you’re promised as a citizen of the country that you live in, you rights and freedoms that come with being a citizen of that country.
5. The dream that he is bound to because he believe strongly in his country.
6. They defined it has unalienable and it still applies today.
7. I agree with him to some extent because there are duties that all people should be required to do, but then again it’s a matter of opinion.
8. Vote on everything, be informed voters, etc.
9. As trying to find the balance between liberty and security.
10. To show what the people can change by voting.
@kate: though we had different opinions on number 7 we both agreed on what responsibilities should be included(number 8).
ReplyDelete@elisabeth S: i liked how even though we both supported the same side we use different things to support them. i hadn't really though about the question the way you did.
1. liberty has to be worked for, and its not easy after that, you have to maintain it to keep it
ReplyDelete2. yes, because it you were to let it run its course without any guidance it will fall apart
3. so that there is no unnecessary disputes
4. the american dream
5. the determination required to achieve your dream
6. things that were god given, it sort of is still relevant
7. it makes sense but i feel that a lot of people would disagree with them
8. having to vote even when you don't want to
9. they determine the balance between liberty and security
10. the other two branches work at making the laws while the judicial branch judges using the laws
1.We wouldn't have the liberty and declaration we have today without Jefferson and the likewise to come up with it. it also wouldn't have be maintained if they wouldn't have protected it.
ReplyDelete2.Yes, because you cant have liberty without people enforcing it, the same way you can't fly without wings.
3.It is important because if you respectfully but firmly disagree then you are telling the other person that your idea is not more important than their viewpoint but rather you prefer it this way. this will cause the society to work with each other and make compromise their view points/ideas.
4.I think he means the opportunities this country provides to people.
5.The obligation and the right to dream big and taking advantage of the promises.
6.To the founding fathers "rights" meant divine rights that the person was born with and couldnt be taken away from the person no matter what. i still thing this is the definition of rights today at least in my opinion.
7.I would tell him that the bill of obligation is what is expected of us as citizens and the laws we follow and the responsibility is depending on the individual whether or not to follow the obligations and laws, so i think this exists in an indirect way.
8.The responsibility to vote and make a difference
9.The role is to figure out as best as possible the balance between liberty and security using the constitution and not just saying my way or the high way because am the judge.
10.To show that he doesn't want his opinions leading him to the decision but rather the constitution and the balance and its importance.
1. When you hear the word liberty you may not think of anything big, but in all reality liberty is more than one might say and the true meaning behind it seems to gets lost. Us as citizens and political leaders, we are in control of the meaning and making sure it doesn’t get lost so easily.
ReplyDelete2. I do agree with him in a way. I mean you can’t have liberty unless someone enforces it. I mean it’s kind of like a trend. If someone doesn’t start believing in it and start making others fight for it…then is it really there? And will people really pay attention to it?
3. It is important in free society because we as members of this society need to learn the correct way to understand one another.
4. We as free Americans have this perfect little life compared to others. So what I think he was trying to say is what our country promises us. Things that the bill of rights state. More so the American dream, that everyone seems to want.
5. I think the obligation he is talking about is people actually working to fulfill their dreams.
6. The founders defined rights as unalienable. And this still plays a roll in today’s life.
7. I think for people to fulfill their dreams, is on them. There shouldn’t be a bill that states that one must go for it. Putting a bill in place that states that would be crossing the line.
8. I think it would be voting and much more.
9. To find a balance between the constitution and laws.
10. I think it is because many people get it mixed in their head that they are the same thing.
@ Salvi i agree with you on #7 on how a lot of people will disagree, because its part of the human nature to disagree.
ReplyDelete@Riley Patrick....i like how you answered question#10 its well thought out and i wasn't thinking of it that way at all,i see how it ties the whole speech now that i thought of it this way. good job :)
Kate: I agree with most of your answers. But I have a few questions. On number 7 all you wrote was “I disagree”. I was wondering why you disagree. Also for number 6, all you said “no”. Again I would like to know why. Other than that I like your answers. Very short, sweet, and straight to the point! : )
ReplyDeleteRiley Patrick: I really liked reading through your answers. They had detail and some of them I had a little bit of a different answer, so it was cool to read what you had to say. For number 5 you wrote “…America in general.” What exactly do you mean by that? What about America? That’s the only question I had. But really good work! : )
1. Liberty, just because we earned it, does not just exist. We must protect and defend it. If we do not, it will disappear.
ReplyDelete2. I agree that liberty is not on autopilot. As a country, we continue to develop and advance. This means that who we are as a people has changed and what it takes to secure freedom has also changed. We need to adapt to a new way of life and new freedoms and responsibilities.
3. In a free society it is important to be respectful of people even if you disagree. Look at our Congress now. They do not respect each other and their approval rating is at record lows and they cannot accomplish anything. If people respect each other, they can work out agreements and compromises.
4. I think that the “promises of the country” were that of the freedoms and the ability to be whoever you want to be.
5. The obligation was to believe in the American dream.
6. The founders defined rights as freedoms. It is something that people are given by law. Now, it seems that the term “right” is mingled more with duty and responsibilities that if we have the right to do something, we should.
7. This makes sense in that if, in the Declaration of Independence, we are told what our government specifically grants us as rights, we should also be told what our responsibilities should be.
8. Responsibilities should include being willing to serve and benefit the country in however an individual sees fit. Not all people would help the country to their full ability in roles of politics or military service. We need scientists and engineers and artists to help society. They are as beneficial as the people in Washington, in their own way.
9. He describes the role of a judge as one of interpretation, not creating. Judges must interpret the laws as they are, not bend and twist them to meet their own desires.
10. The judiciary branch, at a federal level, is not elected. The people elect a President, but the President chooses to appoint Justices to the Supreme Court.
Kate: I disagree that if no one enforces that people have freedoms, someone will try to take them away from you.
ReplyDeleteAseel: I don't think that I agree with your #9. I do not know what the state representatives have to do with the court system in that manner. Maybe I am confused, but other than that, your responses make sense. :)
1. How would you put this phrase in your own words?
ReplyDeleteMadison and Jefferson understood that freedom was delicate and for it to continue to exist people needed to be educated
2. Do you agree with Justice Thomas that liberty is not on "automatic pilot"? Why or why not?
I do not think that liberty is on autopilot. If we had a freemarket-norights way of living then those with the money or power would have guaranteed rights. The poor do not know or cannot think about how little rights they have since education is a cost problem for them and not the rich. The poor will continue to not understand their “god given rights” and the rich can exploit that. We could slip into this cycle if we don’t… if it’s any signal, my difficulty in understanding the prevention of this cycle is a red herring for the need to educate the population about this.
3. Why is the ability to "respectfully but firmly disagree" without being "disagreeable" important in a free society?
If somebody is unable to say their opinion because it is frowned upon then the next generation will eventually come to a point were any politician that puts out a bill that interferes with the freedom of speech will face little opposition.
4. What do you think Justice Thomas means by the "promises of this country"?
The opportunities to make it big like Carnegie as long as you work hard and make some short term sacrifices for long term rewards.
5. What "obligation" is he referring to in the last sentence of this excerpt?
I guess the obligation to try and succeed against all odds in life. It couldn’t really understand most of it.
6. How did the Founders define "rights"? Is that definition still relevant today?
The founders defined rights as what are given to us in the constitution and laws are what take them away for our protection if the need arises. I really can’t see a difference between then and now unless I’m missing the point entirely.
7. How would you respond to Justice Thomas's assertion that there should be a "bill of obligations" or "responsibilities"?
If you really want the current establishment a permanent one then that would make sense but that interferes with the foundation for our government, that the people could take it down paint over it at any time, even if the current establishment doesn’t like to acknowledge that. It would be forcing us to do something at a legal level. It would be safer just to keep it a social standard. That way we at least have a high moral standard
8. What kinds of responsibilities would be included?
I hope none.
9. How does Justice Thomas describe the role of a judge?
The judge’s job is to figure out what the constitution says about the current situation and the level of security required maintaining it.
10. Why does Thomas make a distinction between the elected branches of government and the judiciary?
The elected branches of government come and go relatively quickly compared to the supremecourt’s members. One regulates the output of the other the while the other creates laws that seem to fit and sees what happens. Check and balance system.
1. We were given the gift of freedom, but for it to continue to exist, we have to want it and protect it from falling.
ReplyDelete2. Liberty isn’t automatic: we have to decide we want it. If we just give up fighting for our rights, someone will take them away, because it would be easier to rule the masses as a tyrant then as a president.
3. You have to have your own opinions, to think for yourself, or people will get you to believe false things. It’s important not to be rude though, because then people will respect you and your opinions. After all, everyone is allowed an equal say, so if you just try to trump everyone else, they might not respect you.
4. The American Dream.
5. To get the American Dream, you have to work towards it. It’s an obligation to see your goals through.
6. I believe our founders defined rights as the freedom man was born with; the things man should be able to do in a just world. I hope today we think it’s the same, but we don’t live in a just world, so we have to fight for rights.
7. If you give people obligations and responsibilities, you’re giving them rules to follow. Rules aren’t necessarily bad, only when they start to get in the way of what’s right, and in the way of freedoms. So since I don’t entirely understand what’s being said, I don’t think I can give a real opinion.
8. I think responsibilities for Americans would be the responsibilities we’re given in the Constitution: to vote for a higher power, then follow it, and if the need should arise, to replace it. I don’t know what other responsibilities should be engraved in stone.
9. To figure out the balances between liberty in security, not to make up new ones.
10. Judging isn’t about emotions; it’s about what goes in line with justice and rules. A lot of what goes on in elected branches is voting, and that requires an opinion, as Elisabeth Spector said.
Response:
ReplyDeleteKate,
I never thought of how you put your answer for six, that rights were something that couldn't be taken away from you, and you're right that that's something that isn't as believed in today. People try to remove freedoms because it makes them easier to rule, like tyranny. Is that what you were getting at, or did I misinterpret?
Response:
ReplyDeleteRiley,
I like how you put your answer for seven, that to give us a way to be Americans and to insist that this is the way we must live, would be to reduce our freedoms. That’s it exactly! Except, I wonder… is that exactly what he meant? Someone else put it that this was simply saying that we need to remember to balance civil liberties and civil order… if this were what he was saying, would you agree then?
You don't have to respond, just food for thought! :)
1. To rephrase, the founding fathers like Madison and Jefferson understood that liberty can’t stay if the people didn’t know what liberty was and can’t act to prevent from losing it if it ever happened. People have to understand what they are protecting and why it is important to protect it. If people don’t understand why it’s important to protect their liberty, they therefore won’t protect it, and won’t be able to recognize if they have it taken away from them.
ReplyDelete2. I agree with Justice Thomas that liberty is not an “automatic pilot” because others can simply stop it and take away liberties. This is why people have to know about their liberties in life and protect it because people can easily go and try to doing something to benefit them but violate others’ liberty. People have to fight for their liberty every day.
3. The ability to respectfully disagree with someone without acting in any sort of negative manner towards them is important in a free society because everyone has the right to their own thoughts and opinions. Along with that, we have the free society because it allows everyone to have their own opinions but to talk amongst each other. Even with differing opinions or attitudes, if people are able to respectfully disagree and not attack others, it prevents tension and helps groups come to solutions or answers.
4. Justice means by the “promises of this country” is the ideas many people had about the United States in history. The country promised that anyone, no matter their background or family, had the opportunity to succeed in life by having supports like public education and the right to start your own business. The United States promised people life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
5. The obligation Justice Thomas is referring to is the obligation of being an active citizen in life and the obligation to continue working hard because both are necessary to fulfilling the dream.
6. The Founders defined rights as limitations that serve to protect people’s natural rights of liberty. The definition is still relevant today because people are still having their rights being violated, so they have to come forth and protest.
7. I whole heartedly agree with Justice Thomas’ assertion of having a “bill of obligations” or “responsibilities” because I have seen people argue and talk about their grievances and how they should gain more rights, and even use this to make themselves seem better than others. There are a lot of people that focus on social justice and how much of a minority their identity is, so instead of being responsible or doing their obligation of being a citizen by being active, they just complain about themselves and attack others.
8. Responsibilities like following the laws, and being an active and/or positive influence in the community would be included. The responsibility of following the laws and regulations is not incredibly hard, but people have to be aware of their actions in regards to the law if threatens others’ own rights. People are responsible of becoming registered and voting on issues and officials they support to be a part of the decision.
9. Justice Thomas describes the role of a job as a person who has no authority of what they think something should be. With his role as a judge, it is his job to figure out the correct definitions and meanings between the Constitution and in laws and deem if an issue is against the law or is unconstitutional.
10. Justice Thomas makes the distinction between the elected branches of government and the judiciary because he wants to make a point at the differences between the power elected officials have and the Justices. The people do not vote for new Justices, so Justices should not have the power to come up with new ideas to set into law. That is the job of the elected officials to bring about the new ideas for a changing world, and the people get to decide if they want these people to push these ideas by voting for them.
1. For liberty to continue we as a nation need to continue understanding what liberty is. For if we do not then it will fail, for like our forefathers before us knew Liberty was not something that would stay indefinitely without care, but something that needed tending and protection like a delicate piece of china.
ReplyDelete2. Yes I agree one needs to keep fighting (not necessarily physically) for what they believe. These liberties are a belief and if you stop fighting for them they are as good as dead. For one needs to at least stand up for one’s beliefs and by standing up for them you are fighting for them.
3. It is important because in a free society you want people’s ideas, opinions and thoughts, which is one of the benefits of a free society. However, people tend to shut down when they are constantly harangued about the foolishness of their thoughts. This is why it is so necessary and important to have the ability to “respectfully but firmly disagree”. This way if the idea is truly a horrible one, you can put an end to it without stopping the creator from continuing to create. It is like stopping the production of a product without putting the company out of business.
4. I take it to be many things it could be the promise of certain freedoms, such as freedom of speech or religion; or it could be the ‘American Dream’, the latter one being the one that makes the most sense. This dream is what has driven both American’s and Immigrants for generations. It has become America’s Promise.
5. The obligation is to better oneself so that you end up with more money or a better living then the ones before you. They pass on the obligation to fulfill the American Dream.
6. They defined rights as "God Given" laws that every man had no matter what the circumstances. This definition is most definitely the same today. People just use them to nausea, because of them we have created a state were it is nearly impossible to get anything done. I believe these rights are important but like the Justice said, why do these criminals get treated like nobility?
7. I would love it; there are so many people who say the more freedoms one has the more responsibilities they have as well. Even Spider Man with this famous line “with great power comes great responsibility” shows us that we as American’s with so much potential power and freedom have to have at least that much responsibilities. Thusly we should have certain responsibilities and obligations we all should follow. However then we tread that dangerous line of falling into the American Burden and we most definitely do not want that to happen.
8. Really all we need here is to not misuse our power or our rights, we need to own up to what we did not skirt around the bush and stall and stall. If everyone did this America would be better, at least by a little, then it is now.
9. His role is to figure out the balance between liberty and security in the constitution and laws.
10. To show that he is not like the elected officials that he decides things purely on the constitution not on the changing world he lives in. To him the constitution is constant and a sea that is the changing times surrounds him.
1. How would you put this phrase in your own words? Our country’s forefathers knew that liberty could only exist if the people comprehend liberty enough to preserve it. They also knew that liberty was not self preservating, but instead was like a delicate blossom fetid in its worn ambience and in need of constant care and attention lest it fall worn and sullied upon the floor (liberty needs care, protection, and attention to survive and will not just continually exist since it won).
ReplyDelete2. Do you agree with Justice Thomas that liberty is not on "automatic pilot"? Why or why not? I agree with Thomas that Liberty is not on ”automatic pilot.” Liberty must be striven and cared for, for if ever left unattended it would spiral downwards. An idea, for liberty is an idea set in motion, must be understood and forever endeavored after so as the idea in question never loses motion. This means that the masses must fuel liberty’s flight so to speak (through endeavor), keeping it going to serve its purpose.
3. Why is the ability to "respectfully but firmly disagree" without being "disagreeable" important in a free society? It is important since in a free society everyone is allowed their own opinion, therefore you and your companion will most likely not agree with each other on every subject. You both may disagree but we should respect opinions by respectfully but firmly disagreeing so as not to seem disagreeable or narrow minded to our companions. In a free society you can’t force ideas on someone so better to just disagree with them then be disagreeable. Our social climate is that we must act agreeable to get anywhere in life, so to avoid being disagreeable should top our list in social mannerisms. Besides, why act disdainfully towards someone just because of a difference in opinion? It’s just not worth the detrimental effects.
4. What do you think Justice Thomas means by the "promises of this country"?
The American dream and in particularly freedom whether politically, culturally, socially, or economically speaking.
5. What "obligation" is he referring to in the last sentence of this excerpt?
He is referring to the compulsion/ obligation to improve ones life that was inspired by the American dream into these people.
6. How did the Founders define "rights"? Is that definition still relevant today? The founders defined rights as God given privileges and today we see rights as civil liberties.
7. How would you respond to Justice Thomas's assertion that there should be a "bill of obligations" or "responsibilities"? I think obligations cannot be forced upon a populace due to our present set of rights/ civil liberties, but could we, I would say doing so would greatly improve society.
8. What kinds of responsibilities would be included?
Responsibility’s to care for the needy, and for all other forms of life on earth and other moral obligations like to help those who need it ect. (including all of humanity and the environment).
9. How does Justice Thomas describe the role of a judge?
To figure out the balance between liberty/ freedom/ rights vs. security in/ with respect to the constitution and laws.
10. Why does Thomas make a distinction between the elected branches of government and the judiciary? Because elected branches of the government generally creates new change for the people while the judges stand impartial to the people bringing balance to all change that affects us for the sake of morals and ethics. Judges serve ethics an therefore the people but not the people directly as do elected officials if this were not the case judges would not be able to strike a balance that is morally correct sine the people would influence their decisions.
1. If liberty were just given to the people there would be no reason for laws. it needs to be directed and not just given to us. that is why we have laws.
ReplyDelete2. Yes, because if it were on auto pilot it would just take its own course that is why we guide it.
3. If respectfully but firmly disagree wasn't used today in society our society wouldn't be balanced. We need it because if you were face to face with someone and they said something you didn't like you would freak out and start screaming. that usually doesn't happen
4. I think he means freedom of our country
5. The obligations and dreams of the people in the United States
6. They thought they were privileges that were given to us by a bigger being. Today we think of them as laws just to follow
7. Obligations can't be forced upon a society if they have laws controlling that, but if we were to use them it could help the society in different ways
8. the responsibilities would most likely be the use of voting
9. He wants it to be balanced out and he explains it mostly as the people who choose freedom or not
10. He makes the distinctions because two branches make the laws and judicial makes sure they are being used correctly
1. We have to protect out freedom in order for it to exist and have the rights and freedoms we want.
ReplyDelete2. I some what agree with him in a way because you can’t have a lot of liberty unless someone enforces it. In order for the other people to believe it or follow other people would have to do it.
3. It is important because in a free society if someone is afraid of their opinion being judged they might not state it and some people will look at you as a push over.
4. I think he means the idea people had about the United States and their history kind of like the American Dream so to speak.
5. I think the “obligation” he is referring to could be to try & succeed against all the odd or obstacles a person encounters in life.
6. The Founders defined rights as the freedom man kind was born with or like what are given to people in the constitution and laws are what take them away for our protection if the need arises.
7. I agree with Justice Thomas assertion I guess because it makes sense the government grants rights and people know them and if the government gives us responsibilities people would follow them.
8. I guess responsibilities would be like people would have to protect and serve the country in multiple ways and stuff like that but people would probably prefer no responsibilities.
9. He describes their role as to find a balance between the constitution and laws
10. Elected branches of government create change for the people and judges don’t involve emotion the go strictly on the laws to get justice.
Responses:
ReplyDeleteAlex, I noticed that in number six we had similar view points but a couple different pointer and I like the way you summarized your thoughts on the question.
Kase, I noticed on number eight you thought a responsibility would be the use of voting and I thought a responsibility would be to protect and serve the country. After reading your responses I thought voting would be a good responsibility that would probably be added and it was a great idea.
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ReplyDelete1. In order for us to have our liberty or civil rights the people of this country need to know the meaning of these rights. We weren’t simply given this “liberty,” we had to actually fight for it and because of this we should protect it.
ReplyDelete2. I do agree with Justice Thomas, liberty was not given to us on a steady path, there were many bumpy roads taken in order to win it and liberty cannot be driven without the people.
3. It is important because you have to be respectful about others opinions and in a free society the citizens have freedom of speech so they can say what they want. Listening to others, allows you to hear the many opinions that want to be heard.
4. The civil rights given to the people of the U.S.
5. The obligation to follow your dreams
6. All men are created equally and are given god given rights- life liberty and the pursuit of happiness. No, they are not the same the constitution has been changed plenty of times giving citizens more rights.
7. I don’t think we should have a bill of obligation but us as citizens of the U.S should participate and take responsibilities.
8. Taking part in the government
9. He has to find the balance between the constitution and the law. It is not his job to put his personal opinions of what the balances are.
10. He states the distinction because many people are unaware that the supreme court has a different role then the judiciary.
1. Keeping liberty is like keeping weight off; it doesn’t magically stay that way if you stop working for it.
ReplyDelete2. I agree. If nobody is willing to protect liberty, then there are hordes of people who would exploit it, and it becomes in their interest to take it away.
3. Respectful disagreement is constructive and informs other people about ideas they haven’t heard before. Being disagreeable keeps everything the same, and then nothing gets done.
4. Justice Thomas is referring to the expectation people have that our freedoms provide an opportunity to succeed.
5. He is describing the obligation to protect freedoms and liberty, which would then keep what he calls “the promises of our country” alive.
6. Rights are freedoms that can’t be taken away.
7. A bill of obligations or responsibilities sounds contradictory to having the Bill of Rights. There are no specifics, but if it was legally binding I think it would be stepping over the line.
8. From how it’s described, a bill of obligations would mostly be about protecting freedoms and liberty.
9. He describes the role of a judge as figuring out the balance between liberty and security in the Constitution, and then using that to interpret other laws.
10. Justice Thomas distinguishes between elected officials and the judiciary because he was appointed, not elected. He refers to trying to radically change things from the judiciary as “regal,” and believes that doing so would be a side channel attack against our democracy.
1. We, the people have to be educated to fully understand liberty and defend it. Just as those who created the Declaration of Independence. We most also know that are liberty is not on “automatic pilot”, and it can always change. Also that liberty itself needs to protect so that it last forever. Just because won, doesn’t mean you hove to stop fighting for it.
ReplyDelete2. Yes, I do agree liberty is not on “automatic pilot” it can always change. We have to keep fighting for it.
3. The ability to “ respectfully but firmly disagree” without being "disagreeable" is how you can show people that you are open to new ideas, and opinions. Because in society there voices that want to be heard.
4. Rights that are country give citizens.
5. To go after your dreams and goals and make them become true.
6. The entitlements given to the citizens of this country. We have more rights today, then there was in the past.
7. I am in between. I do believe, as citizens we should do are part in this country. But I think that we should have choice in the matter. Of where or not we should do it.
8. To be educated, and taking part in the politics (voting, stay up to date with events, etc.…)
9. He his explaining how he has to balance constitution and the laws.
10. He was explaining the differences between the 2 branches.
1. How would you put this phrase in your own words?
ReplyDeletePeople need to be educated, not just know that liberty and freedom exists, but to be able to understand, defend, and most importantly protect these values for future generations. When freedom was gained from the oppressors, the people who “framed it” understood that others could upset our freedom and liberties, and that is why we have documents to help guide us and help protect it.
2. Do you agree with Justice Thomas that liberty is not on "automatic pilot"? Why or why not?
Yes, I very much agree that liberty is not on “automatic pilot”, because if it was just on “automatic pilot” then we wouldn’t be able to “take control of it” and take it down new roads or paths. We couldn’t explore different areas and figure out what works what doesn’t. We would be grounded to the ideals and beliefs our “founding fathers” believed in and not into what society has grown into.
3. Why is the ability to "respectfully but firmly disagree" without being "disagreeable" important in a free society?
It is important to be able to be respectful but still be able to disagree with someone in a free society because everybody in the free society can have different views and not just the same one. That is what makes it a free society.
4. What do you think Justice Thomas means by the "promises of this country"?
What I think he means by the “promises of this country” is American is the “land of opportunity”. That opportunity comes in many different forms; it could be work, land, prosperity, families, homes, freedom, etc.
5. What "obligation" is he referring to in the last sentence of this excerpt?
What I think the “obligation” he is referring to is in order to see a “dream become a reality” then you need to work for it and see it through. The “obligation” in my eyes is work.
6. How did the Founders define "rights"? Is that definition still relevant today?
I believe they defined “rights” as the foundation of the documents they wrote and then I believe they are still relevant today.
7. How would you respond to Justice Thomas's assertion that there should be a "bill of obligations" or "responsibilities"?
I would say I think there should not be a “bill of obligations or responsibilities” because if you are putting obligations and responsibilities onto paper then you are putting limitations on what people can and cannot do. But on the other hand I would have to know what the “Obligations/Responsibilities” are before I would respond or say anything.
8. What kinds of responsibilities would be included?
I would hope one of the responsibilities if there would ever be one would to be an active voter and think before you vote. But then again I would hope you always are.
9. How does Justice Thomas describe the role of a judge?
Judge Thomas describes the role of a judge as someone who is to figure out the best he can the “balance” between the constitution and the laws.
10. Why does Thomas make a distinction between the elected branches of government and the judiciary?
I think he makes the distinction because the elected part of government is basing their roles on their own beliefs and what the people want and the judiciary branch with the “judges” are supposed to judge based on the facts and be unbiased and hopefully balanced with the laws and constitution.
This is Felix. Just thought I'd make that clear.
ReplyDelete1. The Founding Fathers thought that we should be free, and thought that they could not just “conjure up” this sort of thing, but that they needed to dictate how it was formed and how it developed.
2. Liberty is not on automatic, because it is constantly debated by Congress. Whether or not this is a good thing is up for debate.
3. There was a piece on NPR concerning teens learning how to argue properly. It noted that if they could properly argue with their parents, they would be able to properly say “no” to drugs.
4. The Promises back then were mostly the promise that you could get decent work for decent pay. That was what enticed people to America.
5. The obligation to Push forward, and helping other people push forward, no matter the cost.
6. They defined rights as things that everyone in the country should have, or at least, every white male over 21 that owned property should have.
7. Why? Anything not covered in the Bill of Rights, Constitution, or surrounding laws must have some sort of moral rationality for it not being on the limited list as is.
8. The only obvious ones I can think of are already listed. Things such as “Thou shalt not be prejudiced” which is pretty much explained through various court cases.
9. He describes the role of the judge as the person who aligns the balances of freedom versus safety.
10. He makes this distinction because there’s a difference between voting for people and voting for people that will eventually nominate other people.
Hamda Wako
ReplyDelete1. Thomas is staying that you can’t set back because someone else found liberty for you. You most knew the liberty and stand for it. You have protect because if you do not it’s not going to be around forever.
2. I agree with Justice Thomas that liberty is not on “automatic pilot” because once the people stop talking about it, liberty would fall easily.
3. It’s important because if you were to agree with everything the society would be democracy. New ideas have to able considered in order to create a greater society.
4. I think the promises of this country was to create a country that is very unique from other with, such as no races, equal rights, and better government type.
5. The obligation of living in a free country and having to be treated equal with rest of the humans.
6. Founders define rights as something that is equal and democracy type of government.
7. I agree that within today society there should be little bit of bill of obligations or responsibilities because the only thing the 21st century about in the advances of technology and a little time should be for everyone to do their job as citizens.
8. As citizen everyone should learn about what the foundling’s father had to go through to give us all what we have today and then they should protected.
9. The role of a judge is to balance the liberty and security not to make new balance just make an old balance using the constitution.
10. So that the kids could understand the difference between the elected branches of government and the judiciary
1. People need to understand the whole concept of the word “liberty” because liberty isn’t just given out you have to earn it. Liberty is not a mandatory thing but freedom it something important and needs to be protected and kept through eternity.
ReplyDelete2. I do agree that liberty is not on automatic pilot because freedom isn’t just given to anybody liberty is like respect and any other good thing it has to be earned.
3. To be about to disagree firmly but respectfully with out being disagreeable is important to a free society because that is a way to come to a even agreement that will benefit both parties.
4. When he said “promise of this county” he meant the opportunities.
5. The obligation was to make your dreams and goals come true.
6. When the founders meant by rights was something that can’t be changed and held as something that can’t be taken.
7. I’ll disagree because it seems like a limitation on right to others and will push citizens to do what they can really do and there will be little to no wiggle room.
8. A responsibility will be to vote on every issue and be in to every politic it will be like everyone is a part of the government.
9. The rule of a judge is a balance between security and liberty.
10. Lots of people don’t understand or they just are passive about it and then they will be clueless on the theory and that will make room for mistakes.
1.To have rights/liberties the citizens have to be educated on the rights that they have. if they don't know what their rights are then how can they have them.
ReplyDelete2.Yes, I do agree with hime because if we aren't educated or told our rights or don't care about our rights then our liberties could be stolen from us and we would even know.
3.This ability is important because it makes discussing topics more civil. Making things civil helps people calmly talk about issues without getting into fights about the issue.
4.He means the things that define america like freedom for all and life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
5.the dreams that they have and want to fulfill at any cost that they pass down from on generation to the next.
6.the rights were the set of rules that helped protect us from our government and is still relevant today.
7.i think that it is a good idea but i don't think that it would be practical because people might not follow them just because they are not forced to.
8. voting, helping the city and the state, being respectful to the town and its property.
9.He partly tells the role of a judge but only the part about being a balance for the law.
10.he makes the distinction because the judiciary is very different than the other two branches and checks the other to branches so that they don't overstep their power that they have been given.
1.) I believe that what Clarence Thomas was saying is that Thomas Jefferson and James Madison knew from the start that to have your liberty in this country you are going to be able to actually know what liberty is and you are going to need to fight for it and defend it.
ReplyDelete2.) I do agree with Justice Thomas about liberty not being an "automatic pilot" because liberty is not just going to happen in a matter of seconds. You actually have to fight for your liberty, for example the wars in America's history.
3.)It's important to disagree with someone in a respectful way because you will still be able to maintain a relationship with that person while you are getting things accomplished. When you are being just plain "disagreeable", then you are both not getting anything accomplished and there's tension between the two of you.
4.) The first thing I think about when I hear "promises of this country" is the American dream. In America, it does not matter what your family background is. If you work hard and take the many opportunities that are in America, you will be able to become successful in life.
5.) The obligation of an American citizen includes working hard, being able to fight for our country, take opportunities, help each other, etc.
6.) I believe that the founders defined rights as to benefit and protect law abiding citizens. The rights now are directed more towards the people who are not abiding by the law. For example when you commit a crime the police officer will read you all your rights, not saying that victims don't get their rights explained to them, the focus is more on the criminal's rights than the victim's rights.
7.) Our grievances shouldn't outweigh our responsibilities and our obligations. There should be more of a balance between our grievances and our obligations/responsibilities.
8.) Responsibilities for us citizens in America include taking the opportunities that are given to us, working hard, being a good neighbor/citizen to our country and doing these things in a respectful and a successful manner.
9.) Justice Thomas describes his job as to FIND the balance between security and liberty, but it is not to CHANGE the balance due to what's going on in society. We voted for Justice Thomas to find the balance, not to change the balance.
10.) Thomas makes a distinction because he wants to make it clear that it is not a judge's job to change the laws but to interpret these laws and keep the balance while the elected branches of government are able to change the laws.
1. I believe that the founders of the Bill of Rights or the Declaration of Independence knew that if they wanted to achieve their dreams of liberty the general population had to be knowledgeable on why liberty was necessary. They also knew that liberty would not be granted to them, and that they would have to work to make it possible.
ReplyDelete2. I do agree with Justice Thomas that Liberty is not on auto-pilot, because I don’t believe that liberty is something that is just given to you. I feel as though liberty must be gained not granted. I think this is evident in our history because if we never defied the British, then they would have never given us our liberty.
3. In a society were freedom of speech is encouraged, I feel as though being able to be respectful but firmly disagree with someone is important. I think it’s important because if you disagree with someone in a disrespectful manner then no one will treat you with any respect. Also if you’re not firm in your decisions and you let others persuade you then I feel as though you’re giving up some of your rights.
4. I think he means the American dream and your rights as an American citizen.
5. The obligation to fulfill your dreams.
6. The Founders define “rights” as basic freedoms that every human being should have. I believe it is still relevant today because of the Constitution.
7. I agree with him, because with more freedom you are bound to have more responsibilities.
8. To be educated at a high school level, to be knowledgeable about politics and vote, and have a decent understanding about current world affairs.
9. He believes that a judge should be a figure that interoperates the constitution and find a balance between liberty and security.
10. He makes that distinction because the judiciary branch should be based solely off the constitution while the elected branches of government should be allowed to have opinions on different issues.
1. Without these people in history we wouldn’t have the same freedoms, these people knew what liberty was and knew exactly what it meant. It wouldn’t be something they would create we all have to take part in it so it wouldn’t be taken advantage of. Just because we won and can fight for our country doesn’t give us liberty, we have to know what is too much and what isn’t enough so we don’t miss use it.
ReplyDelete2. I agree with him because, you can’t just magically have liberty it takes time and patents’, you must work for it.
3. If you act out then no one will want to listen to you, you must learn to listen to others because if you don’t you might miss a very important piece of information, and people will just treat you the same way you treat them. There is really no right or wrong in a free society it is your opinion against someone else, and getting out of hand won’t allow him or her to see things your way.
4. I think he means that when you come here you are promised the same amount of freedom as the next person, but that doesn’t mean that the people that are here will treat as they would their kind.
5. He is referring to doing what needs to be done, when you decide to come here you are saying you are going to follow the rules and those rules become your obligations. The things that come first to help support your country and yourself.
6. They defined them as things that you are able to do and you are free to use them or not, the choice is up to you not anyone else. I think in most cases yes it is still relevant, but now for each right the exceptions.
7. I think that each right is our responsibility or obligation; we must learn to know when we are taking advantage of the right. It is our responsibility to use them wisely and understand them.
8. I think it would just be our everyday things. To take care of our family and ourselves, to go to school or work, to know when something is right or wrong, sometimes the most simple things can make the biggest difference.
9. Their role is too judge the situation the best they can. They have to decide if the person has broken the law or not, they do not make new laws they just enforce the ones that are already there.
10. He makes a distinction to show that the judiciary doesn’t have anything to do with making the laws they just have to judge the things that have broken or violated them they can’t do anything to change them, only the elected branches can and you vote for the ones that make them so if you don’t like it then you need to vote more carefully.
1. Madison and Jefferson understood that people needed to know that liberty wasn’t just a right and had to be protected. They knew that liberty was not a divine right and it could go away as quickly as it came.
ReplyDelete2. Yes, I believe that liberty is not an automatic pilot in society. However, I believe it should be. People should be safe and free already instead of having to fight for it.
3. People need to be able to have different opinions on things and be able to freely talk about them without fighting. If we can’t hold conversations about controversial things that people are going to have different opinions about then can we even have interesting conversation? If every one were to have the same opinions things would be boring, but at the same time, people need to consider the things other people bring to the table.
4. I think the promises of this country are freedom of just about everything, even though that’s sometimes not the case. There’s freedom of speech, religion, press, and so on.
5. He is referring to the obligation that people feel when they have a dream they want to accomplish.
6. They defined rights as things that can’t be taken away. I think this definition is still relevant today.
7. I think our obligation and responsibility is to obtain and not abuse our rights. Therefore, there shouldn’t be a bill of obligations or responsibilities.
8. Responsibilities to our community, country, and fellow people. Things that benefit society and ourselves.
9. He says it is his job to decide the middle ground between liberty and security fairly as best as he can.
10. He makes the distinction because it’s not his place to say if the world has changed or to make a new balance between liberty and security.
1. For people to have liberty, they need to first understand what it is. While our liberty exists, we must protect it. It was given to us, but can collapse easily.
ReplyDelete2. I agree with Justice Thomas’ views on liberty. I believe that without guidance, liberty wouldn’t exist. We must want liberty, and without that drive, it can be taken away.
3. Its important to “respectfully but firmly disagree” because in a free society, people are bound to have different views. By respectfully disagreeing you can share opinions with others, without completely disagreeing with their views.
4. The opportunities of the country.
5. The obligation to work towards your dreams, and accomplish them.
6. The founders defined rights as the privileges given to us. Today, I think those rights have been expanded, but that definition is still relevant.
7. I feel like a bill for obligations/responsibilities would be a little drastic. People have to have the drive to work on their own responsibilities, and if they don’t, it’s on them.
8. Voting, being involved in politics, getting an education, etc.
9. A judge must find a balance between liberty and security, while still keeping within the Constitution and laws.
10. Justice Thomas makes the distinction to make sure that people understand the difference between the elected government and the judiciary.
1. Madison and Jefferson both feel that the populations needed to be educated. This way they can understand and defend liberty. As well, they understood that it was a right therefore, it was delicate.
ReplyDelete2. Yes I agree. This is because we had to fight for liberty it was not handed on a silver platter.
3. It is important because it gives people the opportunity to state their opinions without feeling as though they are being judged.
4. Justice is trying to refer to the American dream.
5. The obligation that he is referring to would be to chase your dreams and goals.
6. Originally our founders defined rights as our freedoms. These were given to us when we were born. Now, it currently stays around the same.
7. I feel that as Americans that we all have a certain amount of responsibility. However, there are some exceptions and it would have to be to an extent.
8. Voting, respect, taxes, etc.
9. His job is to balance liberty and security with the constitution as his aid.
10. The other branches don’t deal with the interpretation of laws, whereas the judiciary branch does.
1. Jefferson and Madison understood that liberty is not something that can exist without the cooperation and tolerance of the people. Liberty is something that can be taken away if some people understand it, and other don't.
ReplyDelete2. I do agree with Justice Thomas. If liberty were on automatic pilot, it would be available in the lives of all Americans at any time. However, I feel that this is not true for a lot of people (i.e., gay couples, certain races/religions). Liberty is protected when it can be earned by everyone.
3. I believe that being able to disagree with another is a sign that we live in a free society. But, at the same time disagreeing should only go to a certain extent. Disagreeing respectfully with another is completely different from disagreeing with every statement that another person makes.
4. The "promises of this country" fully implies the American Dream. A house, a steady job, a voice, and freedom.
5. I believe that Justice Thomas is referring to man's obligation to himself. I believe that he is saying that men rely too much on their country and their county's obligation to them, and forget about their obligation to help their country, and therefor help themselves.
6. The Founders defined our rights as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This is still relevant today, but to an even fuller extent. There are certain things that are relevant and huge in today's society that were not when this country was founded (again, gay marriage, religious/racial rights). Our basic rights are still the same, but they cover more ground.
7. I think that Justice Thomas's idea of a "bill of responsibilities" or "obligations" is quite necessary. A bill of obligations wouldn't imply that the responsibilities written in it are federal law, but maybe law of nature. If there were to be a bill of responsibilities, it should include responsibilities that people should be doing anyways, but maybe don't feel obligated to do. Like, helping fellow man before helping oneself.
8. First and foremost, "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness". I realize that this is a right, but it should also be a responsibility, to oneself and to others. It should be one's responsibility to respect that this right applies to all americans, not just the ones you happen to like.
9. Justice Thomas describes the role of a Judge as finding the balance between two very different and contradicting things; liberty and security. The role of a judge is to find a balance and not make it up of the top of his head. A judge is for the people; they are somebody who protects their freedom, but also their safety.
10. Thomas makes this distinction because it is his job to be nonpartisan and non-biased, but being partisan and biased is how people running for other positions in other branches get elected.
Kowsaro, I like your answer for #7 and I think you explain it well about the "bill of obligation" is what is expected from us, while responsibility is their choice to follow it.
ReplyDeleteAlexis,you're response to #5 kind of scared me, because I hate to admit that there is a sense of obligation to completeing goals. I never really thought about it until now.
1. Our fore fathers laid down our government for us. The public needs to be educated in order to understand our liberty we have earned. We will not always have liberty, but we must fight in order to keep it.
ReplyDelete2. Yes because i feel that we may not always have our liberty, it can be taken away just as "easily" as it was gained.
3. It is important because we can disagree and no one can tell us what is wrong and we cannot tell anyone that they are wrong. If we do, then this would create conflict.
4. The promises refer to the reasons that our fore fathers had come to this country for. For freedom.
5. The obligation is to really understand and believe in our countries morals and to be willing to stand up for them.
6. The rights refer to the first amendment of the constitution. These rights were given to everyone and are still given to everyone.
7. I feel that we should have a minimum amount of responsibilities. We cannot coast off of other peoples achievements for forever.
8. One of which would be knowing your own rights. Many people today probably do not even know their own rights. We should also have to vote for what we want, because people complain about what is happening in this country but they might have not even tried to make a difference.
9. He says that he things that there should be balance, and that judges should be specially picked and be willing to do their job as best as they can.
10. He says this to show that we still should vote on things in the judiciary branch, as we do the same for the other branches.
@Salvi: I agree with you on 7, why do you agree with what he says?
ReplyDelete@Helena: I really liked your explanation 2, much better then mine, you helped me more understand this concept.
Felix: I like your answer for #3 with the NPR piece but I think you could have addressed better how disagreeing with out be disagreeable is important.
ReplyDeleteSujit: Like your simile for #1 but not sure if it is accurate (genetically some people stay slim with out work due to high matabolism). Also would have liked to have seen your opinion on how best we could protect liberty in # 2.
Elizabeth Spector: I think that your answer to question 8 was very interesting. I was thinking more about the political side, but I thought that you’re more ethical side was very thought provoking.
ReplyDeleteHelena Rudoff: I liked your answer to number 4. The way you expressed the American dream was very insightful. It wasn’t just life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness and yet your definition encompassed those ideas as well.
Aseel: i really liked your wording for number one, i had trouble with that.
ReplyDeleteHelena: number two is really well put, and i like your point. i didn't think about that as much
Natalie: Your first answer is really descriptive and a good response
ReplyDeleteRiley: I got a great understanding out off all your answers
ted: about question two, i don't recall a time when liberty had came easy, but besides that, i agree with how you can lose it easily
ReplyDeleteKate: on question ten i feel that is is more of the reason that the judicial branch is different than the other two in the way that the judicial one judges and the other two work at creating the laws that the Judicia uses
Joey- Question 6: What I'm hearing is that you think people do things partially because they think they have the right to; which I completely agree with, I've just never thought of in that way before. People can sometimes take advantage of their rights and think that because they have that right, they should go ahead and use it, even though they really have nothing to say.
ReplyDeleteAlex Weiss- Question 3: I was really having trouble understanding this question, but I think your answer really explained it. Respectfully disagreeing and being disagreeable is a weird combination, and they almost seem like opposites. But I like how you explained that we respectfully disagree so as not to seem disagreeable, and how you connected it to our social priorities.
@Elisabeth S- 1. I agree, but why do you think that it is so important that everyone understand the true definition of liberty?
ReplyDelete@Kowsaro- 7. I liked how said the bill of obligations exists in an indirect way, but then why do you think he felt it was important to say that there should be an actual bill?
@Ted: number 5, really explain what obligation is. Great Job!!!
ReplyDelete@Ivonne: I learn something that I didn't know about Madison and Jefferson. I learn something new everyday.
@Ted Byers #8 "One of which would be knowing your own rights. Many people today probably do not even know their own rights. We should also have to vote for what we want, because people complain about what is happening in this country but they might have not even tried to make a difference."
ReplyDeleteI agree with your statement that many people don't even know their own rights, but disagree that it should be put onto paper through a "Bill of Obligations or Responsibilities". Which is what the question is asking. But I want to know whether this is the question response or what you believe in.
@Elsa Kuhn #3 "People need to be able to have different opinions on things and be able to freely talk about them without fighting. If we can’t hold conversations about controversial things that people are going to have different opinions about then can we even have interesting conversation? If every one were to have the same opinions things would be boring, but at the same time, people need to consider the things other people bring to the table."
I totally agree with what you are saying. None of the documents that are the foundation of this country could have been done if they didn't listen to what others brought to the table. Also yes it would get very boring if everyone had the same opinions.
Natalie
ReplyDelete3. I agree with you about having to be able to listen to others because other people have important things to say sometimes. However, being a good listener is something people really have to work at and I think a lot of people don't want to put in the effort.
Deandra
1. I agree that just because we won our freedom doesn't mean it doesn't have the ability to go away someday. Even though we'd all like to be reassured the we will definitely always be free, it doesn't work that way.
Elsa: I found your answer to number two interesting. It would be fantastic if people did not have to fight for their freedom because it really shouldn't be necessary, though in reality nobody is just going to hand you your freedom, sadly ):
ReplyDeleteNatalie: I agree with your answer on number four. It's pretty hypocritical how America is known for being a free country, yet some people here will treat you horribly if they feel as if you are "different".
Karen: I really like how you answered number 6, showing that our system is caring more for the criminal then the victim and I completely agree. It is strange that we seem to want to protect the criminal rather then the victim. If you look at France their government is truly designed to help the victims rather then the criminals. However, you have to wonder what would be different if we did have that sort of system.
ReplyDeleteTed: I completely agree with your number 8. Democracy is founded on the voice of the people but if you take away that voice then it is not Democracy. So why do people not vote and then complain with a new law? I don't know, but you point is very valid, we should have to vote.
Still Felix, guys.
ReplyDeleteTed: Question 6:
I like your answer, and it adequately explains the question, but I wonder what you must feel about the other 26 amendments in the Constitution.
Damarris: Question 4: Is there anything else that "Promise of Our Country" might mean? And if not, what kind of opportunities?
Kate: 10. I agree with you, that most people are clueless, but do you mean clueless to a judge's duties, or to liberty, citizenship, etc. and what they are?
ReplyDeleteElsa: 2. I mostly agree with you, that everybody should have liberty, however, do you think there should be any exceptions? What about the people who abuse the privilege over and over again, do you think there should be any repercussions for them?
1. I would say that they both agree that people need the education to fully understand both documents as well as see the privilege it is and to not take lightly and that they need to not only respect that they do have it but as well as protect it.
ReplyDelete2. Because it should not be something you just automatically gain you need to honor it and as well as respect it and until you are able to fully understand it you should defiantly nit just automatically gain it.
3. because there is a very large difference between respectfully and as well as firmly disagreeing with some ones opinion because you red to see that you can respect the others opinion without being passive about your own but not being the opposite and completely disrespecting the other persons opinion.
4.I think that he is referring to as the american dream and what every american pictures or most american picture as the american dream
5.I think that they are referring to they do not only pass down the dream but the importance of the dream onto the next generation and the importance as well as the responsibility that it intakes.
6. when they refer to right i think they are referring to the rights that where established in the declaration of independence.
7. I would strongly agree with that because some people need to be reminded of there responsibilities as an american citizen and not only that but peoples obligations they have as an individual as far as a parents, or a care taker or a citizen they all have obligations.
8. Like i said previously responsibilities as a student or parent or citizens and what falls under each of there roles in society.
9. As the person who needs to find the balance between liberty and security in each case that they are appointed too and that they have to find and keep the balance to come to a conclusion.
10. Because there is such a difference and some people do not fully understand the difference between the two.
Elsa - #1 - i like how you answered this and brought up how they had to protect it and how it was not just a right i completely agree with your response but if it was not just a right what else would you call it do you think? great answer
ReplyDeleterebekah- #8 - when you mentioned responsibilities you said voting and i complexity agree with you but what would others be? because voting is defiantly one of them but i think maybe others but great answer
Alex Weiss - I agree with you on question 7 (that a bill of obligations would be incompatible with the Bill of Rights if it was binding), but I would make the arguments that it's more important to keep the Bill of Rights the way it is. Even if we could decide what to put in it, a bill of obligations could be used under a corrupt government to convict innocent people or stop reforms.
ReplyDeleteTennison - Your answer for question 4 reminds me of a quote by George Carlin: "It's called the American Dream because you have to be asleep to believe it." (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acLW1vFO-2Q#t=189s)
Helena: I really like your answer for #2. I hadn't looked at it through that predictive and i really agree with what you said, especially gay couples. its as if their liberty isn't accepted.
ReplyDeleteElijah#7: I respect your opinion, but do you think we should have a bill of obligations? overall good response.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteNatalie: I really like your answer for #2. I completely agree with what you said.
ReplyDeleteElisabeth W. : I really like answer you gave for #1. I thought that you explained it really well.
Damarris- i really liked your answer to number 2 because it really did make a connection with mine and what i though
ReplyDeleteAudra-i agree on your number ten because some people dont understand the differences between the three branches of government
Helena#5: I like how you interpreted the mans obligation. I enjoy your input on how men are relying to much on what their country can do for them rather than vise versa.
ReplyDeleteElsa#3: I like how you said that without having controversial topics that our conversations would hold no interest. I agree with you that the excitement does come from a little bit of disagreement.
# Ivanna (8) - I definitely agree with you on needing to take part in government but I would also include the need to be educated, because voting without understanding the issues and the candidates can have consequences.
ReplyDelete#Ted (1) - I agree with you on nearly all of your answers! I have to disagree with you when you said we won’t always have liberty.
Karen- i agree with you 100% on number 2 because we do have to fight for our liberty it isn't just something that will show up and be successful we have to work towards that.
ReplyDeleteHelena- in number 3 you make a very good point, i like how you describe how disagreeing is okay but only to a certain extent.
Natalie:#7 i never thought of obligation in that way i always assumed obligation is something people want you to do, but i never thought of iit as something you had to do
ReplyDeleteChase: #4 i thought it was interesting that you thought about opertunities coming in so many different ways or groupings
I think I've already stated my opinion; agreeing would be repetitive so I'm going to make a counter point to anything I find that I don't agree with.
ReplyDelete@Alexis Burgett
7. and 8. Who suffers if we don't vote? If we can't deside who to vote for does a justice system get to punish us or worse even vote for us.
@Elisabeth Wright
7. and 8. again. To quote you "People are responsible of becoming registered and voting on issues and officials they support to be a part of the decision." Well what if they are an anarchist and don't want any government and hate all the candidates? It's well known that some people don't get what they want in democracy but to be forced to demonstrate by voting that they support something that they do not is not democracy in any of it's forms or interpretations.
@Tennison: I thought your answers were very descriptive, and I liked your views for #7
ReplyDelete@Elsa: I completely agree with your answer for #3
> Liberties needed to be defined to the public in a way they could understand and not only this but to this day it needs constant protection.
ReplyDelete>Yes, liberty isn't something that can protect and keep itself out of harms way because as long as people have free will others liberties will be threatened.
> In order for society to function we have to respect each other so being able to disagree in a respectful manner is a must if you want to fit in.
>The right to achieve your goals you set for yourself and be exposed to more opportunities to do so.
>When he refers to obligations he's talking about the need and right we have to fulfill our dreams
> Something you naturally have that cannot be taken from you and, the definition hasn't changed.
> I think he over did it. A series of goals every american should strive for but making a bill for it is a waste of time and effort.
> Responsibilities such as voting, participating in your local and federal government, and staying informed on current events.
> He describes the role as a living scale between constitutional rights and opinions opposed to laws.
> Many people cant even state the difference.
Response
ReplyDeleteKate #10:
I really like how blunt and plain you stated your answer to question ten. i strongly agree with your statement
Natalie #8:
I strongly agree with this answer because sometime we do overlook these fundamentals that make huge differences in society
1.) The delegates who wrote and ratified the Bill of Rights had a very deep understanding of liberty. They realized that education is prudent for liberty to even exist. They also knew how fragile liberty is and that it will not be something that will not be easy to maintain. Liberty requires much protection in order to thrive.
ReplyDelete2.) I agree with Justice Thomas with how being free is not an automatic pilot. This relates to education, those who are educated will be less likely to abuse their freedom and use it as an opportunity to harm others for their own benefit. An educated community will be much more civilized than a community that is educated poorly. Freedom only lasts so long, once people abuse it, restrictions and punishment are very much needed. Punishment is a very good incentive for people to avoid committing harmful acts. If everyone acts accordingly and are well educated, liberty will thrive, but it is up to the government to enhance education to the level where liberty can thrive. Liberty doesn’t just naturally thrive by itself; it needs much help and protection in doing so.
3.) Being respectful while firmly disagreeing shows that you do not have a closed mind, and that you are mature enough to try and approach different scenarios from the other person’s point of view and not just your own.
4.) I think that Justice Thomas is referring to the country being the land of opportunity when he said, “promises of this country”.
5.) Justice Thomas means giving up on something that you thought you were meant to do for your own good as the obligation he was referring to in the last excerpt. He is basically saying that sometimes people in this country are going to have to give up on something in order to succeed, since the task they were trying to pursue will only weigh them down.
6.) The founders defined rights as sort something that is vastly increasing, and they also mentioned how rights are being corrupted with people’s need to be recognized, and that time would be better spend focusing on actually rights and obligations. Overall, I would say the founders defined rights as being “bill of obligations” and “bill of responsibilities”. That definition is no longer apparent or relevant today because we have strayed from viewing rights as being obligations and responsibilities, because of how many people are being recognized for their complaints against “rights”.
7.) I would agree with Justice Thomas on how there should be bills of obligation and bills of responsibilities, since there would be much less time wasted if people had focused on their obligations and responsibilities rather than complaining about rights to fulfill their need to be celebrated.
8.) Responsibilities could just simply be doing your job at work and helping to better our society
9.) Justice Thomas describes the role of a judge as figuring out the balance that is in the laws and constitution.
10.) Thomas shows the different between elected branches of the government and the judiciary in order to emphasize on the “roles” that the judiciary have to play out that aren’t assigned by people. People don’t affect the judiciary as much as the elected branches of the government, and rather than just being elected by people the judiciary are appointed roles by the president, which makes the judiciary branch seem much more trustworthy than if they were appointed by people.
Tennison-
ReplyDeleteI really how detailed your responses were, it sure helped persuade me.
Ivonne-
I liked how concise your answers were. Your concise responses made it very easy to see your main points throughout your responses.