Sources of the American and Swiss Constitutions in Ancient Greek Political Thought

Authors

Thomas C. Gelzer

Keywords

Swiss-American Historical Society, Ancient Greek Sources, American Constitution, politics

Abstract

Looking for a suitable subject for the Swiss-American Historical Society within the reach of a classicist, I found the question of the Ancient Greek Sources in the American Constitution. Although not a historian, I thought that would mean treating matters of historical significance as well as of unbroken continuance of the effects of classical thinking. In addition to that the Constitution is one of the living connections which links the mighty United States of America with the tiny Swiss Confederation. But, big or small, both nations have drawn continuously vital forces from the order of life which is shaped by these constitutions. Their similarities and kindred aspirations are embodied in the similar structures of these documents from which every right and law in these contrives derives its legality. And these similarities do not rest on superficial coincidence. They are in fact the result of conscious acceptance of structural elements of the American example by Swiss legislators in shaping their own state. So the philosophical background of the American constitution affects Swiss and American political life alike and reflects basic principles in the political purpose of both nations.

Recommended Citation

Gelzer, Thomas C. (1967) "Sources of the American and Swiss Constitutions in Ancient Greek Political Thought," Swiss American Historical Society Newsletter: Vol. 3: Iss. 1, Article 3.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/sahs_newsletter/vol3/iss1/3