Comparing Constitutions

Question 1

What are the 3 broad similarities between the US and UK constitutions?

Answer 1

1. Both fulfil the same function of laying out the framework of democracy and political institutions
2. Both seek to defend individual rights
3. Both have adapted to the emergence of mass democracy without need for revolution (compared to France or Germany)

Question 2

What is THE key difference between the US and UK constitutions?

Answer 2

US constitution is codified, whereas UK is uncodified

Question 3

What is sovereign in each country?

Answer 3

Parliament in the UK, the Constitution in the US

Question 4

What us different about the relationships between the different branches of government in each country?

Answer 4

Separation of powers in the US, fusion of powers in the UK

Question 5

What is different about how each country’s constitution came in to being?

Answer 5

US Constitution deliberately formed with clear principles following revolution, UK constitution evolved gradually over centuries and still remains essentially monarchical

Question 6

What is similar about the way in which the Constitutions protect civil liberties?

Answer 6

Neither constitution began with the intention of protecting the rights of all people, both have adapted over time to ensure the survival of the nation