A manifesto is defined as a public declaration of principles and intentions. Manifestos are usually political in nature with the most famous being “The Communist Manifesto by Karl Marx. Remember the “Una-bomber Manifesto”? As the United States Government continues to expand, the time is right to have a clear rebuttal to those who want to give government control of everything.
Government is absolutely necessary and small does not mean powerless. In a time of war I want the military to overwhelm our enemies with it’s power. When someone commits a crime against another there should be swift punishment. National sovereignty should be maintained at all costs and any threat against it’s citizens should be met with meaningful action.
The Bible speaks to the purpose of government in Romans 13:4. It says that government is “sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong.” Simply put, the government should establish laws that protect people and then go after the law breakers. The passage also says that the government should collect taxes and be respected by the citizens.
Instead of an exhaustive definition of the value of small government ( leave that to the academics), I will sum up the manifesto with three words – freedom, security, and economy. The United States, with all of it’s historical blunders, has led the world in these areas.
If humans were inherently good, there would be no need for laws or government programs. Mankind however, leans toward evil and requires some civil action to survive chaos. The question is how much? Small government advocates believe in rules, but strives to keep them limited. It’s sad, but true, some people will use their freedom to abuse others. This is why government exists.
Freedom is a wonderful thing, in spite of those bringing it shame. Small government supports individual, personal freedom. Progressives see big government as the only answer to social needs. They believe that without government intervention the disadvantaged will be left in the streets to die, the environment will be wrecked, and the military will be used to loot other countries. I believe just the opposite. A freer society will create a better society. A free people will produce more profit, more technology, do better at taking care of the poor, and build a cleaner and healthier world. Bigger government will lead to slower progress.
Security is the number one job of the federal government. If the government can’t stop threats from the outside, then everything else is futile. Weapons programs, immigration, and the global economy demand strong national leadership. Progressives try to make the security debate about seeing a doctor or having a retirement account. They would also give up national sovereignty to join the biggest government ever – a world government. In my book that is called surrender.
A strong economy is important for any nation. Small government proponents believe that the economy does better when controlled by the private sector. Big government supporters are spenders wanting more of the economy in the hands of the government. This is the issue with the tea party. The government should be in charge of policy not products.
In conclusion, the 10th Amendment says the federal government should be limited and let the states handle the bulk of issues. Why does the federal government give money to Alaska for a bridge? Every earmark represents a government too big.
Tags: big government, Economy, freedom, manifesto, security, small government