Amending Democracy: Arizona’s Constitution and the Debate on Change

Not all democratic societies rely on formal written constitutions. The British model allows for flexible governance, while Arizona’s Constitution, the easiest to amend in the U.S., takes a similar approach—emphasizing responsiveness over restraint. In this episode, we explore how Arizona’s Founders embraced a progressive vision of constitutionalism that prioritizes majority rule and direct democracy.

From Thomas Jefferson’s belief in frequent constitutional renewal to James Madison’s insistence on deliberation and stability, we’ll discuss the philosophical roots of this debate. We’ll also examine how Arizona’s approach contrasts with the federal Constitution’s amendment process and why figures like Woodrow Wilson admired the British system’s adaptability.

What does Arizona’s amendment process reveal about the balance between efficiency and liberty in a democratic republic? Join us as we unpack Arizona's unique constitutional framework's historical, philosophical, and practical implications.

The Arizona Constitution Project

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