Quote by James Bryce, On the U.S. Constit
There is a hearty Puritanism in the view of human nature which pervades the instrument of 1787. It is the work of men who believed in original sin, and were resolved to leave open for transgressors no door which they could possibly shut.
Summary
This quote suggests that the framers of the Constitution in 1787 held a strong belief in the inherent flawed nature of humanity, influenced by their Puritan background. This perspective shaped their approach to constructing the Constitution, emphasizing the need to create a system that did not easily provide loopholes or opportunities for individuals to engage in immoral or unethical actions. The framers were determined to prevent transgressions and establish a government that would withstand and restrain human tendencies towards sin or wrongdoing.