From Paine to Present: Common Sense Solutions for Tomorrow's America
Written by: Andrew B. Raupp / @stemceo
In 1776, Thomas Paine authored a pamphlet titled "Common Sense" that spurred colonists to rally for independence. Over 240 years later, our nation needs to reapply a similar simplicity and pragmatism to preserve our Constitutional Republic. As we navigate the present, a host of proposed changes beckon our attention - defunding corrupt government agencies, implementing blockchain-based paper ballots, repealing Citizens United, allowing taxpayers to direct their tax contributions, and even shifting our nation’s capital away from Washington DC. Though initially perceived as radical measures, when scrutinized through the lens of "common sense," they may emerge as the solutions we've been yearning for.
Defunding portions of our government is a provocative term that often breeds confusion and dissent. However, this proposition is not an advocacy for anarchy but a call for strategic pruning. The aim is to reduce the bloated, overreaching bureaucracy and refocus it on its primary constitutional responsibilities: protecting individual rights, maintaining law and order, and delivering services that the free market might falter in providing. This doesn't imply the elimination of essential operations, but rather refining them, possibly delegating specific functions to the states or private sectors to encourage competition, efficiency, and accountability.
A next-generation solution is to implement paper ballots tied to an immutable blockchain ledger. This solution seeks to address growing anxieties on both sides of the political divide regarding the integrity of our voting process. With a paper trail, we have tangible proof of each vote, and the digital blockchain ledger ensures a tamper-proof, transparent record that remains publicly auditable. Such a dual system can fortify trust in the electoral process by significantly curtailing vulnerabilities to undue interference.
The call to repeal Citizens United, a controversial Supreme Court case that equates monetary contributions with free speech, resonates with a significant portion of the populace. The ruling allowed corporations and unions to spend unlimited amounts in political campaigns, potentially overshadowing the voices of individuals and skewing our democratic processes. Reversing this decision could herald the restoration of power to ordinary citizens and reinforce the core democratic belief that our system thrives when it remains accessible and accountable to all, irrespective of financial prowess.
The proposition that taxpayers determine where their tax dollars should go introduces an enticing mechanism to engender civic participation and amplify transparency in governmental spending. Imagine tax forms that contain sections letting us endorse sectors close to our hearts - be it education, healthcare, defense, or others. Such direct democracy might ensure that government budgets reflect citizens' values and priorities more intimately.
The idea of relocating our nation's capital might seem a symbolic gesture, but symbols carry profound meanings. Washington DC, while deeply rooted in history and tradition, also represents political gridlock and partisanship. A move could symbolize a rejuvenated commitment to bipartisan collaboration and a shift away from entrenched power dynamics. While the undertaking would be colossal, choosing a location that epitomizes the diversity and spirit of modern America could revive the essence of what our nation stands for.
While some proposed changes might seem daunting at first glance, when approached with an open heart and the wisdom of "common sense," they can resonate as powerful tools. These tools not only ensure accountability, transparency, and citizen empowerment but also rejuvenate the foundational tenets of a vibrant Constitutional Republic. Just as Paine's "Common Sense" became the torchbearer of independence, today's solutions can be the beacon guiding us to a government truly 'of the people, by the people, for the people'.
Andrew B. Raupp is the Founder / Executive Director @stemdotorg. “Democratizing science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education through sound policy & practice…”