Alabama Constitution Section 35 - Objective of government.
Alabama Constitution – Section 35: Objective of Government
Section 35 of the Alabama Constitution reads:
"That the sole object and only legitimate end of government is to protect the citizen in the enjoyment of life, liberty, and property, and when the government assumes other functions, it is usurpation and oppression."
Explanation:
This section outlines the philosophical foundation of government in Alabama. It states:
The primary and only legitimate purpose of government is to protect individual rights—specifically life, liberty, and property.
If the government goes beyond this purpose and takes on roles that are not aimed at protecting these rights, it is considered illegitimate and becomes an act of usurpation (unjust seizure of power) and oppression (unjust exercise of authority).
Importance:
This provision reflects classical liberal principles and echoes the ideas of thinkers like John Locke, who believed that governments exist only to protect natural rights. It serves as a limitation on government power, warning against overreach.
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