Warning: The Constitution is Still Relevant

June 11, 2010 | By Amanda J. Reinecker, Heritage Foundation

"The idea that the Constitution is somehow dated and less relevant today is outrageous," opines The Heritage Foundation's Brandon Stewart. "The simple, noble principles enshrined in the Constitution have never been more relevant than they are today." Unfortunately, many on the left have taken issue with this fact.

Consider Wilder Publications, publisher of a recent anthology of Founding texts, including the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. This "book" comes with a printed disclaimer stating that these self-evident truths may not be so true any longer. Reader beware!

This is utterly ridiculous. These ideas are not dangerous; they're liberating. These values don't expire; they're eternal. These truths are not exclusive; they're universal.

Based on reader reviews, Amazon.com customers appear to agree. What do you think?

As Heritage's Matthew Spalding explains in his new book, We Still Hold These Truths:

To this day, so many years after the American Revolution, these principles—proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence and promulgated by the United States Constitution—still define us as a nation and inspire us as a people. They are responsible for a prosperous and just nation unlike any in the world…

A warning to readers is not necessary, explains Spalding, because the documents themselves are "a warning to tyrants and despots everywhere." To say they are no longer relevant is to undermine the fact that "it is because of these principles, not despite them, that America has achieved its greatness."

In its disclaimer, Wilder Publications warns, "No part of this book may be used or reproduced…" The values enshrined in these works ought to be reproduced time and time again.

If you are interested in being exposed to the "dangerous ideas" in our Constitution -- ideas about free enterprise, limited government, individual freedom, traditional American values, and a strong national defense -- you can order your own pocket copy of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution (sans warning label) from Heritage.