WeimarConstitution Reflection

Article 17

Every state must have the constitution of a free state. State parliament must be elected in a general, equal, immediate and secret ballot, in which all Reich German men and women participate, according to the principles of representative election. The state government requires confidence of state parliament.

The principles for the election of state parliament also apply for local elections. State law may determine if those who lived in the community for one year or less may participate in the election or not.

This article grants men and women the right to vote. They are to follow state guidelines and are also kept in secret so that the people do not feel pressured or intimidated to vote for the party of their choice. It is also important to note that people must be living in a state for a certain period of time to prevent any unjust votes. This is important even today. Voting should be kept private and furthermore all people should be allowed to participate in voting.

Article 109

All Germans are equal in front of the law.

In principle, men and women have the same rights and obligations.

Legal privileges or disadvantages based on birth or social standing are to be abolished.

Noble titles form part of the name only; noble titles may not be granted any more.

Titles may only be granted, if they indicate an office or occupation; academic degrees are not affected by this regulation.

The state may no more bestow orders and medals.

No German may accept titles or orders from a foreign government.

This article explains that all people are equal, both men and women, regardless of your social class. They have revoked insignificant titles from monarchies to further make people more equal. This is still applicable in today’s society because people should not feel entitled due to their finances. They need to be reminded that any crimes they commit are still punishable by law and are not excused due to their social standing.