We the People cover image

We the People

Lincoln, Democracy, and the American Experiment

Apr 11, 2024
Historian Allen Guelzo discusses Lincoln's vision of democracy, his approach to slavery and preserving the Union. They explore Lincoln's views on sovereignty, consent, elections, majority rule, minority rights, and the rule of law. The episode delves into Lincoln's economic policies, interpretation of Jefferson, and hypothetical impact on the federal judiciary.
01:00:46

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Quick takeaways

  • Lincoln emphasized consent of the governed as foundational for democracy, showcasing faith in ordinary citizens' ability to govern.
  • Lincoln highlighted the balance between majority rule and minority rights, promoting accountability and harmony in governance.

Deep dives

Lincoln's Commitment to Democracy and Consent of the Governed

Lincoln's powerful commitment to democracy is highlighted through his emphasis on consent of the governed. He upholds the importance of sovereignty and the consent of the people as fundamental principles. Lincoln views democracy as centered on the concept of consent, where the people have the power to make decisions for themselves, showcasing his belief in the capability of ordinary citizens to govern their affairs and make choices through elections, emphasizing accountability and respect for minorities as essential aspects of a democracy.

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