There are various standards by which the U.S. Constitution might be judged. For some, the fact that this rather short document (of around 4,300 words) has lasted so long, despite the massive changes American society has experienced over the last two centuries, points to its power and importance. For others, the fact that so many nations have borrowed heavily from the U.S. Constitution for their own constitutions is a testament to the wisdom of adopting a federal system with separation of powers and checks and balances. For these reasons, it is not surprising that, for many Americans, the U.S. Constitution exists not simply as the blueprint for their system of government but also as a sacred document that together with the Declaration of Independence, serves as a testament to America's values and priorities as a nation.

The Constitution might...