how democratic is the u s constitution
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Democracies around the world do not necessarily "admire" our constitution, but they do use it somewhat as a guideline for their own. Certain aspects of it are very precise, yet others seem vague. Particular ideas are not specifically acknowledged in the constitution, though they are used in everyday occurrences. These "hidden" ideas, known as implied powers, are simply assumed to be part of the constitution.
One instance of these "hidden" ideas is the fact that the United States Constitution reviews the process of electing a president, however, it fails to address whether or not electoral outcomes are uncertain.
The Constitution blatantly states the standard of government by distribution of the powers of elected or appointed officials rather than of voluntary persons capable of administration. In articles I, II, and III, the powers of the three main branches of government are addressed thoroughly, while the powers of the "unaccountable" internal actors or foreign powers are not referred to, hinting their unimportance.
The democratic validity of the Constitution is justified by the concept that the "executive power (of the president) is constrained constitutionally and held accountable by other government institutions" as set up by the system of Check and Balances of the United States government. An example of his limited power is stated in Article II, Section 2, which says, "He shall have Power, by and with the Advice and Consent of the Senate, to make Treaties, provided two-thirds of the Senators present concur." This quote demonstrates the restricted foreign authority the president holds, due to the fact that the senators must approve his actions...