Western constitutional history

Author: He Qinhua
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-12-01
Features: This book follows the chronological development of constitutionalism, introducing early constitutional thought and practice in ancient Greece and Rome, analyzing the constitutional development in medieval German society, legal and rights consciousness under feudalism, and the significance of the Church's rule for modern constitutionalism. It summarizes the characteristics and significance of medieval constitutional development, as well as the emergence and evolution of modern individualist constitutional thought. Additionally, it explores the ideological foundations and basic features of social democratic constitutionalism, represented by the Weimar Constitution. Based on a historical review of constitutional practices in five Western countries (Great Britain, the United States, France, Germany, and Japan), it further discusses Western constitutional principles and institutions, as well as their modernization. Finally, it addresses new challenges in Western constitutionalism in the 21st century, examines factors influencing constitutional development, and looks ahead to the mission of contemporary constitutionalism.