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HomeHomework Helppolitical-scienceJudicial Activism and Restraint

Judicial Activism and Restraint

Judicial activism refers to the practice of judges making rulings based on personal or political considerations rather than existing law, often to promote social change. In contrast, judicial restraint emphasizes the limitation of judicial power, advocating that courts should defer to the decisions of legislative bodies and uphold existing laws unless they clearly violate constitutional principles.

intermediate
3 hours
Political Science
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Overview

Judicial activism and restraint are two contrasting philosophies that guide how judges interpret laws and make decisions. Judicial activism encourages judges to take an active role in shaping laws, often leading to significant social changes, while judicial restraint emphasizes a more conservative a...

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Key Terms

Judicial Activism
A judicial philosophy that advocates for judges to interpret the law in a way that promotes social justice.

Example: Judicial activism was evident in the ruling of Roe v. Wade.

Judicial Restraint
A judicial philosophy that encourages judges to limit their own power and defer to the decisions of the legislative branch.

Example: Judicial restraint was shown in cases where courts upheld legislative decisions.

Constitutional Interpretation
The process by which courts interpret the meaning of the Constitution.

Example: Different judges may interpret the Constitution differently based on their judicial philosophy.

Supreme Court
The highest court in the United States, which has the ultimate authority in interpreting the Constitution.

Example: The Supreme Court's decisions can set precedents for lower courts.

Precedent
A legal decision that serves as an example or rule for future cases.

Example: The principle of stare decisis relies on precedent.

Stare Decisis
The legal principle of determining points in litigation according to precedent.

Example: Stare decisis ensures consistency in the law.

Related Topics

Constitutional Law
The body of law that deals with the principles and structures of the Constitution.
intermediate
Civil Rights Law
The area of law that protects individual freedoms and rights from infringement.
intermediate
Legal Philosophy
The study of fundamental questions about the nature of law and legal systems.
advanced

Key Concepts

Judicial ActivismJudicial RestraintConstitutional InterpretationRole of Courts