Constitutions should consist only of general provisions; the reason is that they must necessarily be permanent, and that they cannot calculate for the possible change of things.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Constitutions should be broad and flexible because specific rules become outdated as circumstances change.
- In plain terms
- Keep foundational laws general so they last longer.
- What can you take from it?
- Write rules broadly to ensure longevity.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What rules should never change?
- How do you handle future unknowns?
Another view
Too much generality can lead to ambiguity and abuse.
More from Alexander Hamilton
A promise must never be broken.
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