One word that's often applied to the American form of government (and forms like it around the world) is Democracy. However, America is not a direct or "pure" democracy. Technically it could be described as a democratic federal republic. A federal system (dual sovereigns - State and National) where democratically elected leaders make decisions on our behalf (republic).

But let's discuss "Democracy" against some of the big philosophical ideas that underpinned the Constitution: Individual Rights Secured by a Limited Government, Consent of the Governed, and Separation of Power.

Is the Constitution living up to its goal of diffusing power and protecting individual liberty? If yes, explain. If no, what do you believe could be done to change things? Do you believe the Constitution needs changing? Or do you believe democracy needs changing? What changes do you think Socrates or Plato would suggest?