994: A.J. Jacobs | The Year of Living Constitutionally

14 snips

May 23, 2024

A.J. Jacobs, an author and experimenter, shares his year-long journey living according to the U.S. Constitution. He reveals how the founding fathers feared mob rule and balanced democracy with elitism. Exploring the original meanings of the Second Amendment and free speech, Jacobs highlights how perceptions have shifted. He reflects on the fragility of American democracy, advocating for fun ways to engage citizens, like baking 'election cakes.' With humor and insight, he emphasizes the importance of open-mindedness and the need for citizens to actively shape their government.

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ANECDOTE

Ben Franklin's French Lady

Ben Franklin shared a story about a French lady who believed she was always right.
He used this to illustrate how cognitive bias makes us all think like that lady.

INSIGHT

Founding Fathers and Democracy

The Founding Fathers were not entirely in favor of pure democracy, fearing mob rule.
The Constitution, while a step forward, had elitist elements.

ANECDOTE

Musket in Manhattan

A.J. Jacobs carried a musket in Manhattan, legally, due to its antique status.
This sparked discussions about gun laws and their relevance to modern firearms.

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What can a year of following the US Constitution per the founding fathers' intentions teach us about the future of democracy? A.J. Jacobs has answers here!

What We Discuss with A.J. Jacobs:

The founding fathers were not entirely in favor of pure democracy. They feared mob rule and wanted checks and balances to prevent a tyranny of the majority. The Constitution was a big step forward for democracy at the time, but still had elements of elitism.
The original meaning and interpretation of parts of the Constitution, such as the Second Amendment and free speech rights, are quite different from how they are viewed today. Both liberal and conservative perspectives would likely disapprove of some of the original 18th century understandings.
The founding fathers seemed more open to changing minds and flexible thinking compared to the intransigent political positions common today. Examples like Ben Franklin and James Madison illustrate their willingness to admit uncertainty and change opinions based on reason and evidence.
American democracy is fragile and must be actively maintained and protected. A.J. Jacobs remains optimistic that reforms and hard work can help save the American democratic system, but it requires dedication and the American people deciding to "lift the sun up" on the country's future.
We can help revive an appreciation for democracy by making it fun and celebratory again, like it was back in the early days of America. Baking "election cakes" to share and enjoy while voting, or hosting festivities at polling places, can inject some much-needed positivity and help encourage participation. Simple acts like this are a good starting point to begin strengthening our civic society and democratic institutions.
And much more...

Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/994

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