Constitution Quote by John Marshall
“The particular phraseology of the Constitution of the United States confirms and strengthens the principle, supposed to be essential to all written constitutions, that a law repugnant to the Constitution is void; and that courts, as well as other departments, are bound by that instrument.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: 1803 Supreme Court decision in Marbury v. Madison
The Constitution declares that any law contradicting it is invalid, and all branches, including courts, must obey this rule.
In simple terms: Laws opposing the Constitution are void; all must follow it.
Key Takeaway
Respect constitutional supremacy.
Themes
law
government
principles
Mood
formal
authoritative
Type
legal
historical
When to use this quote
- legislative drafting
- court rulings
- policy analysis
Key Concepts
constitutional supremacy
judicial review
Questions to Reflect On
- How does judicial review protect democracy?
- What happens when branches disagree on constitutionality?
A Different Perspective
Interpretation can be contentious; political pressures may challenge enforcement.
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