What motivates the Anti-Federalists' view on government participation?

The Anti-Federalists were deeply concerned about the balance of power in the new government structure proposed by the Federalists. Their motivation for advocating for active participation in governance stems from a desire to ensure that the voices of ordinary citizens are heard and represented. They believed that a government that did not involve its citizens actively would lead to tyranny and the erosion of individual liberties.

By promoting active participation, the Anti-Federalists argued that citizens should engage in the political process to hold the government accountable and to safeguard their rights. This was particularly critical in the context of the debates surrounding the ratification of the Constitution, as they feared that a strong central government might overpower the states and diminish personal freedoms. The encouragement of civic engagement reflects their commitment to a democratic government grounded in the consent of the governed, which they believed was necessary for a truly free society.

In contrast, other views such as passive governance or limited government roles did not align with their more participatory vision. They were opposed to any notion of monarchy, as they aimed for a representative government that included the populace's influence in decision-making.