Adapted Quote by John Marshall
“Let the end be legitimate, let it be within the scope of the constitution, and all means which are appropriate, which are plainly adapted to that end, which are not prohibited, but consist with the letter and spirit of the constitution, are constitutional.”
About This Quote
Source Legal Treatise: Federalist Papers Commentary, 1795
Constitutional actions must align with both the letter and spirit of the law, staying within legal bounds.
In simple terms: Follow both the text and intent of law.
Key Takeaway
Uphold constitutional integrity.
Themes
law
constitution
interpretation
Mood
analytical
serious
Type
legal
philosophical
When to use this quote
- court rulings
- legislative drafting
- policy analysis
- civil rights advocacy
Key Concepts
legal theory
judicial review
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance text and intent?
- When should flexibility be allowed?
A Different Perspective
Rigid literalism may ignore evolving contexts.
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