Anglicizing the United States Constitution: James Bryce's Contribution to Australian Federalism

摘要: theory, and had simply been adapted to American circumstances, they might also be Australian circumstances. Thus, Bryce's approach federalism allowed Australia's founders substitute their own colonial tradition of parliamentary democracy under the Crown for republican principles rights separation powers that underlie U.S. Constitution. James The Commonwealth shaped founders' understanding federalism. novelty work was it anglicized United States Constitution audience. Concentrating on practical workings federalism, rather than its historical philosophical development, Bryce represented federal institutions as essentially English sincere. Although he shunned political philosophy, no prejudiced rendition U. S. presented reflections British because, embracing scientific spirit late nineteenth century, believed study constitutional politics should have little do with philosophy. For Bryce, were enduring, whereas ideas relative particular times places. In effect, described developments both state constitutions constitution because sought a rational basis government outside realm utility introduced through pragmatic eyes. By time first conference in 1891, colonies selfAUTHOR'S NOTE: I wish acknowledge support assistance Brian Galligan, David Tucker, Derek McDougall University Melbourne. am indebted helpful advice ofJohn Kincaid two anonymous reviewers. ? Publius: TheJournal Federalism 31:4 (Fall 2001)