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[International law] doesn't show what the Constitution…

“[International law] doesn't show what the Constitution originally meant, and it doesn't show what is fundamentally important to Americans today. It shows what's fundamentally important to somebody else today.” quote by Antonin Scalia
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“[International law] doesn't show what the Constitution originally meant, and it doesn't show what is fundamentally important to Americans today. It shows what's fundamentally important to somebody else today.”

Antonin Scalia

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The statement critiques international law for reflecting foreign priorities rather than the original intent of the U.S. Constitution.

In simple terms: International law reflects others' values, not ours.

Key Takeaway

Question the relevance of foreign law.

Themes

law constitutional interpretation sovereignty

Mood

skeptical thoughtful

Type

legal political

When to use this quote

  • legal education
  • policy making
  • international negotiations

Key Concepts

originalism legal philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should we ignore all foreign legal influences?
  • How can we balance original intent with modern needs?
A Different Perspective

International law can still inform domestic law positively.

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