Constitution Quote by Charles Evans Hughes
“We are under a Constitution, but the Constitution is what the judges say it is, and the judiciary is the safeguard of our property and our liberty and our property under the Constitution.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Judicial Philosophy, 1930
The Constitution’s meaning is shaped by judicial interpretation, which protects property and liberty.
In simple terms: Judges define constitutional rights.
Support an independent judiciary.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- court decisions
- civil rights
- property disputes
- policy debates
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How should judges balance law and politics?
- What safeguards ensure impartiality?
Judicial power can be politicized.