Let the end be legitimate, let it be within the scope of the constitution, and all means which are appropriate, which are plainly adapted to that end, which are not prohibited, but consist with the letter and spirit of the constitution, are constitutional.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Government actions are constitutional if the goal is legitimate and the means are appropriate and not prohibited.
- In plain terms
- If the goal is legal and the method fits, the action is allowed.
- What can you take from it?
- Means must align with constitutional spirit and letter.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who decides if a means is appropriate?
- Can good ends justify bad means?
Another view
What counts as appropriate can be highly subjective.
More from John Marshall
This provision is made in a constitution, intended to endure for ages to come, and consequently, to be adapted to the various crises of human affairs.
Permalink to quote #6 The power to tax involves the power to destroy.
Permalink to quote #8 We must never forget that it is a constitution we are expounding.
Permalink to quote #5
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