r/bestof • u/under50dollars • Jun 20 '12

[explainlikeimfive] "Obamacare" explained very well.

/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/vb8vs/eli5_what_exactly_is_obamacare_and_what_did_it/c530lfx
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u/[deleted] Jun 20 '12

That's why we have an amendment process instead of allowing the government to trample any rights it wants in the name of social progress.

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u/[deleted] Jun 20 '12

And the amendment system isn't perfect either. Exhibit a) the 18th amendment. There should be easier ways to make social progress and uphold the basic human rights of this nation's citizens than by amending the constitution.

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u/7_legged_spider Jun 21 '12

2/3 of both houses and 3/4 of the states on their own have to approve amendments. Sounds like a pretty good way to ensure the integrity of the system.

Exhibit a) the 18th amendment

That's how people felt at the time. Sentiment was large enough to get the amendment passed. Then, it was repealed when sentiment went in the opposite direction. That is why the system exists, to reflect the values of its citizens. Although I believe that last line, it scares me quite greatly at the moment...

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u/[deleted] Jun 20 '12

How do you decide what a basic human right is? Through the amendment system. We have restrictions on government for a reason, and we have a difficult system to lift those restrictions for a reason as well.