[r9etb]

I believe Jefferson was one of the ones who thought that a constitutional convention every generation was the way to go. Jefferson's generation was rather fond of using the word revolution for non-violent departures from the past.

You mean, we should change the structure of our government as often as Italy and France do?

Sorry, I don't but the "revolution every 20 years" bit, even if it's non-violent revolution. Jefferson said a lot good stuff, but also a number of stupid things. That particular quote is among the latter.

[r9etb]

er, I don't buy the "revolution every 20 years" bit.

[coconutt2000]

Jefferson had a point. It wouldn't be a bad idea for the states to revisit the Constitution every generation, if only to debate the amendments, intent, and meaning.

It would also provide an object lesson to state legislatures that they are sovereign legislatures, in sovereign states, subject to Federal jurisdiction in very narrowly defined areas.

Jefferson was a big one for State and Individual empowerment. The two biggest dangers to our liberty are that the states would give up their powers to the Federal government, and that individuals would give up their liberties to either governments.

[Jo Nuvark]

I'm pretty happy that Canada is throwing out their liberal, avaricious government... in a non-violent revolution. Jefferson was talking about throwing out a corrupt government, not the constitution. And incremental ratification of existing entitlements doesn't count. I'm advocating a full on, knock down, drag out, reset.