The Constitution clearly defines the roles of government and protects the rights of citizens. It has a built-in "checks and balances" system to prevent one branch from becoming too powerful. It also provides for procedures to amend the document as the nation's needs change. It was a vast improvement over the Articles of Confederation that provided almost all power to the states, but didn't provide for any real way to regulate relations between the states. Many argue the Constitution doesn't work anymore, but there is one catch to our form of government. It requires an educated and responsible citizenry to participate in the process. We have gotten away from that and now most people are overcome with apathy. What we need is for people to get educated and pay attention to the process and not shows like American Idol.
