Massachusetts Constitution, Articles 7. Right of self-government
Here is the relevant summary of Article 7 of the Massachusetts Declaration of Rights, which is part of the Massachusetts Constitution:
Massachusetts Constitution – Declaration of Rights
Article 7 – Right of Self-Government
Text of Article 7:
"Government is instituted for the common good; for the protection, safety, prosperity and happiness of the people; and not for the profit, honor, or private interest of any one man, family, or class of men: Therefore, the people alone have an incontestable, unalienable, and indefeasible right to institute government; and to reform, alter, or totally change the same, when their protection, safety, prosperity and happiness require it."
Summary & Key Points:
Purpose of Government:
Government exists solely for the common good—to protect the safety, prosperity, and happiness of the people.
It must not serve the private interests of individuals, families, or specific classes.
Sovereignty of the People:
The people hold the ultimate authority to create, reform, or abolish their government.
This right is described as "incontestable, unalienable, and indefeasible"—meaning it cannot be surrendered, denied, or overridden.
Right to Alter Government:
If the government fails to serve its foundational purpose, the people have a constitutional right to reform or replace it.
Significance:
Democratic Principle: This article echoes Enlightenment ideas (especially from Locke and Rousseau) and directly influenced the American Revolution.
Constitutional Power of the People: It affirms that political power flows from the people, not from elites or institutions.
Living Document Ideal: Supports the idea that constitutions and governments must adapt to the needs and will of the people.
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