During a discussion on the founding fathers and the aristocracy moderated by Carol Berkin, Baruch College American History professor, Gordon Wood, Brown University History professor, explains the difference between the views of Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson on the nature of government and human nature

Discussion Questions

1. Contrast Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson’s views on the nature of government. 
2. To avoid the use of military force, what alternative did Jefferson develop? How do you see this idea practiced today? Why did Jefferson oppose military force?
3. How is “Hamiltonianism” and “Jeffersonianism” evident in current U.S. political parties?
4. Summarize Hamilton’s and Jefferson’s view of human nature. With which view do you agree? Explain why.