Embarking on the “Year of Living Constitutionally”: An Exploration of America’s Founding Document through the Eyes of Our Forefathers
Immerse yourself in the captivating journey of A.J. Jacobs, the bestselling author and humorist who embarked on a year-long quest to understand the Constitution by experiencing it firsthand. In “The Year of Living Constitutionally,” Jacobs transforms himself into the ultimate originalist, interpreting and exercising his constitutional rights through the lens of the Founding Fathers.
A Citizen Armed with a Musket
While carrying an authentic eighteenth-century musket around New York City may raise a few eyebrows, it underscores Jacobs’ commitment to authenticity. By embracing the tools and mindset of the Revolutionary era, he sought to grasp the essence of the Second Amendment as it was originally intended.
Expressing Liberty through Pamphlets and Gatherings
Jacobs shuns the digital world, choosing instead to exercise his First Amendment right to free speech through handwritten pamphlets distributed on the streets. He frequents coffee houses and taverns, the original meeting places of American political discourse.
Preserving Individual Rights
Seeking refuge in the Third Amendment’s protection against quartering soldiers, Jacobs emphasizes the importance of personal space. His insistence on respecting his guests’ behavior reflects the safeguards against arbitrary intrusion. Similarly, his refusal to accept cruel or unusual punishment keeps alive the values of human dignity within the justice system.
Questioning a Rorschach Test of Values
Jacobs’ journey unveils the complex tapestry of the Constitution, a document often interpreted as a mirror reflecting one’s personal beliefs. Whether it represents liberation or oppression, the Constitution invites ongoing examination and dialogue. The author questions if it should be venerated as a roadmap or viewed with skepticism as a relic of an era gone by.
Roots in Biblical Interpretation
Jacobs draws inspiration from his previous exploration of the Bible in “The Year of Living Biblically,” where he tested literal interpretations of biblical teachings. This parallel highlights the similar treatment of the Constitution as a sacred text within our “civic religion.”
The Great Debate: Originalism vs. Living Constitutionalism
The ongoing debate surrounding the Constitution’s meaning mirrors the division between biblical fundamentalists and those who believe in its evolving interpretation. Jacobs delves into the complexities of these two approaches, originalism and living constitutionalism, as they shape the decisions of modern-day Supreme Court justices.
Preparing for a Year of Constitutional Living
The author’s preparation for his experiment required immersing himself in historical texts, studying legal documents, and even donning the clothing of the era. His dedication to authenticity sets the stage for an immersive and thought-provoking experience that will challenge readers to re-evaluate their understanding of the Constitution.
Get the Book and Learn More
“The Year of Living Constitutionally,” published by Crown, an imprint of the Crown Publishing Group, is now available for purchase. Visit Bookshop.org to support local bookstores and embark on this extraordinary journey of constitutional exploration alongside A.J. Jacobs.
Data sourced from: cbsnews.com
