Constitutional and non-constitutional governments

This civic education resource packet is designed to provide teachers, community leaders, and other civic educators with an understanding of the differences between constitutional and non-constitutional governments. Six papers discussing the topic are included: "The Differences bewteen Constitutional and Non-Constitutional Governments" (John Patrick and Richard Remy); "On The Need for a Constitution" (James Madison); "Constitutionalism--Historical Background" (Herman Belz); "Differences between Authoritarian and Totalitarian Governments" (Jeanne Kirkpatrick); "Definition of Totalitarian Government" (Carl J. Friedrich); and "Constitutionalism and Peace" (Immanuel Kant). The document provides resources for developing materials, programs, and curricula to promote civic literacy. The material discusses and explains: (1) similarities and differences among constitutional and non-constitutional governments in terms of limitations on powers; (2) similarities in terms of the means governments use to maintain the legitimacy of authority and treatment of dissent; and (3) the examination of historical and contemporary governments and a determination as to whether they are constitutional or non-constitutional. Questions for discussion, suggested readings, other materials, and a list of organizations with related resources conclude the document. (Nl).