Accommodate Quote by Antonin Scalia
“Many think it not only inevitable but entirely proper that liberty give way to security in times of national crisis--that, at the extremes of military exigency, inter arma silent leges. Whatever the general merits of the view that war silences law or modulates its voice, that view has no place in the interpretation and application of a Constitution designed precisely to confront war and, in a manner that accords with democratic principles, to accommodate it.”
About This Quote
The quote argues that even in war, constitutional law must not be abandoned; democratic principles should guide how war is managed, not be overridden by military urgency.
In simple terms: War should not suspend constitutional law.
Key Takeaway
Uphold constitutional limits even in crisis.
Themes
law
democracy
war
constitution
civil liberties
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
political
legal
When to use this quote
- legal debates
- policy making
- constitutional crises
- military planning
Key Concepts
separation of powers
rule of law
civilian oversight
checks and balances
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance security and liberty during war?
- What mechanisms protect law in emergencies?
A Different Perspective
Constitutional safeguards can be hard to enforce under pressure.
