Authority Quote by John Marshall
“That the people have an original right to establish, for their future government, such principles as, in their opinion, shall most conduce to their own happiness, is the basis, on which the whole American fabric has been erected… The principles, therefore, so established, are deemed fundamental. And as the authority, from which they proceed, is supreme ... they are designed to be permanent… The powers of the legislature are defined, and limited; and that those limits may not be mistaken, or forgotten, the constitution is written.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Marshall's 1803 Address on Constitutional Principles
Governments are founded on the people's right to set principles that promote happiness, making constitutions permanent and limiting legislative power.
In simple terms: People set rules for happiness; constitutions protect them.
Key Takeaway
Respect and uphold constitutional limits.
Themes
governance
rights
law
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
political
legal
When to use this quote
- legislative drafting
- civic education
- judicial review
- policy making
Key Concepts
social contract
constitutionalism
Questions to Reflect On
- What principles should guide modern governance?
- How can citizens ensure laws stay aligned with happiness?
A Different Perspective
Constitutions may become outdated over time.
![“The rationale which accompanies that imposition of male authority euphemistically referred to as 'the battle of the sexes' bears a certain resemblance to the formulas of nations at war, where any heinousness is justified on the grounds that the enemy is either an inferior [part of the] species or…” quote by Kate Millett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/895/kate-millett-7301_accompany_the-rationale-which-accompanies-that-imp_8896.jpg)