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America Quote by Antonin Scalia

“It is a Constitution that morphs while you look at it like Plasticman… That is contrary to our whole tradition, to in God we trust on the coins, to Thanksgiving proclamations, to (Congressional) chaplains, to tax exemption for places of worship, which has always existed in America.” quote by Antonin Scalia
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“It is a Constitution that morphs while you look at it like Plasticman… That is contrary to our whole tradition, to in God we trust on the coins, to Thanksgiving proclamations, to (Congressional) chaplains, to tax exemption for places of worship, which has always existed in America.”

Antonin Scalia

About This Quote

Source Speech: Supreme Court Oral Argument, 2005

The Constitution is portrayed as a living document that changes with interpretation, contrasting with traditional fixed values.

In simple terms: Constitution changes with interpretation,

Key Takeaway

Remember that adaptability.

Themes

tradition interpretation law

Mood

reflective critical

Type

legal political

When to use this quote

  • judicial decisions
  • public policy debates
  • educational curricula
  • civic discussions

Key Concepts

constitutional law legal philosophy political theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How should a living document balance tradition and progress?
  • What limits should exist on reinterpretation?
A Different Perspective

Some view change as erosion of original intent.

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