James R. Stoner | British roots of American Democracy

In this episode, Henry Thomson speaks with Dr. James R. Stoner, Professor and Director of the Eric Voegelin Institute in the Department of Political Science at Louisiana State University.

Dr. Stoner, whose area of work focused on British Constitutionalism and its relation to the American Constitution, shares his insight on the transition of British and American democracy.

Thomson and Dr. Stoner dive into the intricate threads of constitutional history with a focus on the symbiotic relationship between British and American constitutional traditions. Together, they explore how the English Commonwealth largely influenced the American Constitution and democracy and how America primarily looked towards England as an example. England’s Commonwealth and British Imperialism inspired the early years of American history and shaped the country we know today.

This episode unravels the historical, institutional, and philosophical aspects that shape the governance, representation, and legislative processes in these distinct democratic systems.