Constitution Quote by Charles Evans Hughes
“The Constitution is what the judges say it is.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks on the Constitution, United States Supreme Court, 1935
The quote asserts that the meaning of the Constitution is ultimately determined by judicial interpretation, emphasizing the power of judges.
In simple terms: Judges define the Constitution.
Key Takeaway
Respect the role of judicial interpretation.
Themes
law
governance
interpretation
judicial power
constitution
Mood
analytical
critical
thoughtful
Type
political
legal
When to use this quote
- court decisions
- legal education
- policy analysis
Key Concepts
legal theory
judicial activism
constitutionalism
Questions to Reflect On
- Should judges have ultimate authority over constitutional meaning?
- How can balance be achieved between interpretation and original intent?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook democratic input and the Constitution's original intent.
![“Next came the Patent laws. These began in England in 1624; and, in this country, with the adoption of our constitution. Before then [these?], any man might instantly use what another had invented; so that the inventor had no special advantage from his own invention. The patent system changed this…” quote by Abraham Lincoln](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/449/abraham-lincoln-88_adoption_next-came-the-patent-laws-these-began-in_1828.jpg)
