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A defence of the constitutions of government of the United States of America against the attack of M. Turgot in his letter to Dr. Price, dated 22nd March 1778

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Almost forgotten among the writings of the Founders, John Adams Defense of Constitutions represents nothing less than a profound view of the nature of government and the American experiment. Adams writes a strong style. Reacting against the more radical elements following the founding era, Adams presents a view of constitutional government which today would be considered Conservative. His aim is to demonstrate that it is through limited government (limited by authorizing documents) men may find the fullest liberty. While governments may become arbitrary, those limited by law serve, rather than rule, the citizen. Modern desire for expansive government stands at serious odds with Adam's view and his understanding of the nature of the American Constitutional system, expounded here, contradicts the demands of the welfare or "nanny" state. Russell Kirk in The Conservative Mind devotes some length to an examination of Adams treatise and finds it both comprehensive and significant. This is a work which our time sorely needs to read and understand if we are to return ourselves to the liberty loving people Adams longed for Americans to be.