Administration Quote by William J. Brennan
“The Constitution was framed fundamentally as a bulwark against governmental power, and preventing the arbitrary administration of punishment is a basic ideal of any society that purports to be governed by the rule of law.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Supreme Court Oral Argument, United States v. Morrison, 2000
The Constitution limits government power and seeks to prevent arbitrary punishment, embodying rule‑of‑law principles.
In simple terms: Constitution protects against unchecked government and random punishment.
Key Takeaway
Uphold legal safeguards against abuse.
Themes
law
government
rights
justice
rule of law
Mood
formal
analytical
Type
legal
ethical
When to use this quote
- court rulings
- legislative drafting
- human rights advocacy
Key Concepts
constitutional law
civil liberties
checks and balances
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms ensure punishment remains non‑arbitrary?
- How can citizens hold governments accountable?
A Different Perspective
May not address systemic biases within legal institutions.
