I would also add that as laws are passed, it removes the need for responsible action and behavior in the people which it is directed (that is largely why many oppressed countries don't know how to handle their new found freedom).
The constitution was written in such a simple yet confusing and impossible way that, for the longest time, it frustrated the many attempts at tyranny. Lately, since the peoples views of the governments purpose have changed and the constitution done away with, we have gained many unnecessary entanglements with the governments hand in our personal lives (welfare healthcare schools etc. etc.). that has allowed for much more power on their side and a hopeless weakness of the people. By instituting more laws we would be giving more power to someone, and it wouldn't be the people.
Responsibility has greatly diminished and been surrendered from the people to the government. Responsibility, though a burden, is power.
This comes from the view point of a Classic Liberal/Libertarian/Juris Naturalist.