how can the very short U.S. constitution still work in the modern age?

Answer 1

It works because it is so short, and not totally specific...it's a framework, so it can be interpreted even now, over two hundred years later, with hardly any amendments. I personally believe it is one of the most incredible documents ever written.

Answer 2

Look at the constitution carefully (just the constitution, not the amendments for now) all it really is, is a blueprint describing how the federal government is to be organized. ...the executive, legislative and judicial branches, and the role of the states. Its obvious they gave this plan ALOT of thought! They've thought of most every contingency. In general, it is as pertinent now as it ever has been, except that the role of the states has been shifted significntly.

For you and I, the most important parts are the Amendments, especially the 1st 10 (the bill of Rights). In general the Consitutional Amendments do NOT limit what the people can or cannot do, rather they limit the authority of the federal government as to what the Gov't can or cannot do. (the 18th amendment abolishing alchohol (prohibition) was a glaring exception to this principle, however, the 21st amendment specifically repealed the 18th amendment)

So how does it still work in the modern age? As long as we don't forget that the basic principle of the Constitution is to LIMIT the authority of the governement, NOT to limit the rights of the citizen, the document will continue to be pertinent for as long as the Federal Gov't of the US exists. It defines the absolute bounds for the Federal Gov't. It recognizes that there is a natural tendancy for centralized power to dominate the people (Something our founding fathers were very, very familiar with just coming out of the revolutionary war with England).
So next time you hear about congress debating a Bill which could affect your life in some way, consider the fact that the constitution places limits on what they can get away with. It's "our" document, which, if properly protected, can be used to stop the otherwise natural tendancy for central goverments to become overbearing.

Answer 3

It is a basic principal of what this country stands for. It does not need to be long or complex. For details, we have other laws covering every aspect of modern life.

Answer 4

the constitution is short because it was not written by a bunch of lawyers

Answer 5

It's still short because we haven't written enough amendments yet.

Answer 6

if you read it- and understand it- you would see why it still works in 'modern times'.