Judicial activism refers to a philosophy where judges interpret the Constitution broadly to create new rights or expand existing protections. Activist courts may strike down laws as unconstitutional even when the text is ambiguous, often focusing on evolving social values and contemporary understandings of justice. Critics argue this oversteps judicial authority, while supporters say it allows the Constitution to adapt to modern challenges.
Judicial activism shapes major social changes like civil rights, privacy rights, and marriage equality, affecting millions of Americans' daily lives.
People confuse judicial activism with any ruling they disagree with. True judicial activism is about the interpretive approach, not the outcome.
Judicial activism shapes major social changes like civil rights, privacy rights, and marriage equality, affecting millions of Americans' daily lives.
People confuse judicial activism with any ruling they disagree with. True judicial activism is about the interpretive approach, not the outcome.