제왕적 대통령* 31)은 공화국의 자유를 위협하는가?: 알렉산더 해밀턴(Alexander Hamilton)의 대통령제 정부론 고찰

Abstract

This article is a critical appraisal of Alexander Hamiltons theory of Presidentialism, focusing on his supposition on the relationship between the monarchical president and republican liberty. Hamiltons theory of presidentialism is built upon his unique understanding of the meaning and the means of realizing liberty in a republic. The prime enemy of liberty in a republic is excessive jealousy of liberty itself. To secure liberty in a republic, such jealousy must be controlled for the sake of the stability of the government. A president with monarchical authority and power is the best form of government for this purpose. On the other hand, his power must also be checked and the title should go to the noblest mind in the society, so that a powerful president may not endanger liberty. In the context of the new threat to liberty in todays democratic republics, Hamiltons argument enlightens us to the compatibility of strong presidentialism with republican liberty.