The Sage President
The Great Mandate of Harmony
Our 18th century Constitution has exhausted its usefulness and now makes us uncompetitive and unhappy. Below, I have reimagined the Constitution in Confucian terms..
Preamble: The Five Constant Virtues
We, the virtuous assembly of the Middle Kingdom of the United States, guided by the Mandate of Heaven, seek to cultivate a harmonious union, uphold righteousness (yi), ensure the tranquility of the realm, defend the people as a father protects his kin, promote the welfare of all under Heaven (tianxia), and secure the enduring legacy of moral order (li) for ourselves and our descendants, hereby establish this Sacred Covenant for the governance of our land and embrace the Five Constant Virtues:
I. To cultivate humanity (ren), righteousness (yi), propriety (li), wisdom (zhi), and trustworthiness (xin);
II. To honor the bonds of family and community;
III. To uphold the Rectification of Names so that our words align with our actions;
IV. To ensure that rulers govern with moral example rather than force;
V. To secure the welfare of all under Heaven, promoting peace and prosperity—
We hereby ordain and establish this Constitution.
Article I: The Assembly of Scholars and Leaders
All authority derives from the Mandate of Heaven, which rests upon those who rule justly and wisely.
A bicameral legislature shall oversee the affairs of state:
The Hall of Deliberation, composed of representatives chosen by the people, reflecting their needs and grievances.
The Council of Elders , composed of esteemed individuals selected for their wisdom, integrity, and experience, serving as advisors to guide policy in accordance with tradition and virtue.
No law shall pass without careful deliberation, ensuring alignment with the principles of righteousness and propriety.
Article II: The Sage President
The executive power shall reside in an appointed leader, known as the Sage Ruler, who embodies the virtues of humility, self-discipline, and compassion.
The Sage Ruler shall not seek personal gain but shall act as a servant to the people, guided by the teachings of the sages and the will of Heaven.
The Sage Ruler shall appoint ministers and officials based on merit and moral character, ensuring that each serves the public good faithfully.
Article III: The Tribunal of Righteousness
Judicial power shall rest in the hands of impartial judges, known as the Guardians of Rectitude , whose duty is to interpret laws fairly and dispense justice according to Heaven’s decrees.
Trials shall proceed with due process, respecting the dignity of all parties involved and upholding the principle of harmony over conflict.
Punishments shall aim at rehabilitation and restoration of balance, rather than mere retribution.
Article IV: The Sacred Bonds of Community
Each household shall serve as the foundation of society, where filial piety (xiao) and fraternal love (ti) are practiced daily.
Local communities shall resolve disputes through mediation and mutual understanding, fostering social cohesion.
Education shall emphasize moral instruction, cultivating citizens who contribute to the common good.
Article V: The Mandate of Mutual Obligation
Citizens owe loyalty and service to the state, fulfilling duties such as taxation, defense, and participation in governance.
In return, the state must protect its citizens’ livelihoods, ensuring access to food, shelter, healthcare, and education.
Neither ruler nor ruled may exploit the other; both must act in harmony, guided by the Golden Mean.
Article VI: The Path of Peaceful Change
Amendments to this Constitution may be proposed by consensus among the Hall of Deliberation, the Council of Elders, and the Sage Ruler.
Such changes must reflect the evolving needs of society while remaining rooted in timeless Confucian principles.
Disputes over interpretation shall be resolved through dialogue and compromise, avoiding discord and division.
Article VII: Universal Brotherhood Under Heaven
This nation recognizes the unity of all peoples under Heaven, embracing diversity while striving for universal harmony.
Foreign relations shall prioritize peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and cooperation.
War shall only be waged as a last resort, when righteousness demands it, and always with sorrow and restraint.
Conclusion: The Call to Virtue
Let every American citizen remember that true freedom lies not in selfish desires but in fulfilling one’s role within the larger order of things. By cultivating virtue in ourselves, we bring harmony to our families, strength to our communities, and stability to our nation. May this Constitution endure as a testament to the eternal truths of Heaven and Earth.
Signed in solemnity and sincerity,
By the People, For the People, Under Heaven
