The Philadelphia Convention

1. The Delegate's Philosophy

1.1. The 55 men met to write the U.S. constitution

1.2. Elite group of economic and political nobles

1.3. Uncommon combination of philosophers and politicians

1.4. The first two weeks were devoted to debates on the nature of republican government

1.5. Practical and divisive issue oftentimes threatened to dissolve the meeting

2. Purpose of Government and Nature of Government

2.1. Purpose of government- preservation of property, national security, insure peace, and promote public health and welfare

2.2. Nature of government- power set against power (balanced government). Wanted a limited government with checks on its power. Believed a balanced government required a complex network of checks, balances, and separation of powers.

3. Human nature and political conflict

3.1. Human Nature- Humans are at a state of constant war and need to be govern to keep them in line . According to Hobbes.

3.2. Political Conflict- Conflict arises by factions and delegates looking out for their own goals and interests.