Constitution Quote by Alexander Hamilton
“A constitution is, in fact, and must be regarded by judges, as a fundamental law. It therefore belongs to them to ascertain its meaning, as well as the meaning of any particular act proceeding from the Legislative body. If there should happen to be an irreconcilable variance between the two, that which has superior obligation and validity ought, of course, to be preferred; or, in other words, the constitution ought to be preferred to the statute.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Federalist No. 78, 1788
Judges must interpret the constitution as the supreme law, outweighing any conflicting statutes.
In simple terms: Constitution outranks statutes.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize constitutional meaning over legislation.
Themes
law
judiciary
constitutional hierarchy
Mood
serious
analytical
Type
legal
philosophical
When to use this quote
- court decisions
- legislative drafting
- policy analysis
Key Concepts
legal interpretation
judicial review
supremacy clause
Questions to Reflect On
- How should courts balance constitutional fidelity with evolving societal values?
- When is legislative intent more compelling than constitutional text?
A Different Perspective
Constitutional supremacy may clash with democratic legislative intent.
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