Calder v. Bull, interpreting the Constitution as a social compact; or a sequel to Jean Jacques Burlamaqui and the theory of social contract (I)

Authors

  • Raúl Pérez Johnston Universidad Anáhuac

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17811/hc.v0i8.36

Keywords:

Samuel Chase, Declaration of Independence, American Constitution, Social Contract, Jean Jacques Burlamaqui

Abstract

Calder v. Bull turns to be the vehicle to link the social contract theory of Jean Jacques Burlamaqui with the American Constitution. After analyzing the thought of Samuel Chase and the framers of the Declaration of Independence, we conclude that the pursuit of happiness ought to be seen as a principle of interpretation of a Constitution that is not an isolated document, but part of a larger compact that integrates not only negative liberties but also social rights.

Submission date: 18/12/2006
Acceptance date: 26/03/2007

Author Biography

Raúl Pérez Johnston, Universidad Anáhuac

Profesor titular de las cátedras de Amparo y Derechos Humanos de la Universidad Anáhuac (México). Profesor adjunto de la cátedra de Derecho Constitucional Mexicano de la Universidad Anáhuac. Profesor y conferenciante invitado respecto de temas de Derecho Constitucional, Amparo y de Historia del Derecho Constitucional en la Universidad de la Sabana, en la Universidad Anáhuac, en el Instituto de Estudios Superiores de Tamaulipas y en la Barra Mexicana Colegio de Abogados.

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Issue

No. 8 (2007): Historia Constitucional N. 8 (2007)

Section

Europe and United States of America

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