This part 3 in our ongoing series We are examining past events showing how they have shaped the present.

The Guiding Principles of Our Nation: Creed, Ethic, and Their Ramifications

Lofty Ideals: Creed and Ethic

"Our highest creed and ethic is encapsulated in the profound assertion: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.' This central tenet is not randomly placed; its prominent position in the Declaration of Independence underscores its significance. It is imperative to understand this declaration as both a creed and an ethic. This principle is intended to guide us on national, societal, and individual levels.

Core Tenets from the Creed

The Principle of Self-Determination

Self-determination is a pivotal concept articulated in the Declaration of Independence, signifying a conscious acknowledgment of this right. It asserts that people have the right to self-govern, pursue their destiny, and become the best versions of themselves. This idea manifests at national, societal, and individual levels, emphasizing that the right to self-determination is fundamental to human existence.

The Equality of All Men

The The principle of equality, as described by Jefferson, is the idea that all individuals should stand equal before the law. This includes the right to seek justice and ensures that justice is not tiered or hierarchical. It is a call for equal protection and fairness, forming the bedrock of a just society.

The Pursuit of Happiness

The pursuit of happiness, as envisioned in the Declaration, goes beyond mere pleasure. It speaks to fulfillment and the essence of a meaningful life. Happiness, in this context, implies living with purpose and aligning one's life with core values and beliefs. Fulfillment is seen as a state where one's life has purpose and meaning, allowing individuals to realize their true potential.

The Dark Shadows: The Dred Scott Decision

Denial of Rights and Self-Determination

The Dred Scott Decision is a stark reminder of this nation's failure to uphold its creed. By concluding that the Negro had no rights—neither God-given nor constitutional—the decision stripped them of their constitutional standing and any means of redress. This act repudiated and divorced the Negro from the foundational principle of self-determination and independence that the nation was built upon.

The Impact of Inequality

The grievous sin of denying equal protection under the law leads to the oppression of people. The decision highlighted that without rights, Negros were severed from the principle of independence, and by extension, from their fundamental humanity and dignity. The ruling effectively dehumanized them, reducing their value to mere economic utility—measured by their productivity in fields.

Human Dignity and Eternal Value

A core belief of our nation's creed is the inherent equality and dignity of all men. This is grounded in the belief that human value is ascribed by God, making it an eternal and fixed reference point. When human value is determined by man, it fluctuates and can be easily manipulated or denied. The Dred Scott Decision exemplified this tragic consequence where the inherent dignity and humanity of Negros were denied, leading to their systemic oppression.

Conclusion: Upholding the Creed and Ethic

The highest commendation of our creed and ethic remains pivotal to ensuring justice and equality. Recognizing and striving to live by the principle that "all men are created equal" is essential for the continuous pursuit of a just and fulfilling society. As a nation, it is crucial to commit to upholding these ideals at every level to truly realize the vision articulated in the Declaration of Independence