The Courts must declare the sense of the law; and if they should be disposed to exercise will instead of judgement; the consequences would be the substitution of their pleasure for that of the legislative body.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Courts should interpret laws objectively; if they impose their will, they replace legislative authority with personal preference.
- In plain terms
- Courts should interpret laws, not make them, or they take power from elected officials.
- What can you take from it?
- Judicial decisions must remain distinct from legislative intent to preserve balance.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Where is the line between interpretation and legislation?
- How do courts remain neutral in political contexts?
Another view
Strict interpretation may sometimes ignore evolving societal needs or injustices.
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