Dahlia Lithwick, a lawyer and journalist, discusses originalism and living constitutionalism, critiquing Supreme Court decisions. Emphasizes balancing original intent with modern understanding in interpreting the Constitution. Examines evolution and criticisms of originalism, particularly regarding women's rights and presidential immunity. Offers insights into the limitations of originalism and the importance of predictability in legal interpretation.
Originalism aims to base judicial decisions on the original meaning of words in the Constitution, adapting over time.
Interpreting the Constitution based on framers' thoughts helps provide structured constraint for judges, addressing judicial activism.
Deep dives
Evolution of Originalism
Originalism as an interpretive method did not originate with the founding fathers or early Supreme Court decisions but gained prominence in the 1980s and 90s. It aims to base judicial decisions on the original meaning of words in the Constitution, evolving from original intent to original public meaning and now to history and tradition. This evolution showcases originalism's flexible adaptation over time.
Principles of Originalism
Originalism emphasizes interpreting the Constitution based on the framers' thoughts at the founding, transitioning from original intent to original public meaning, and now incorporating history and tradition. This approach seeks to provide a structured method of constraint for judges, addressing concerns about judicial activism and ensuring adherence to historical principles.
Challenges to Originalism
Originalism faces criticism for cherry-picking history, lacking predictability, and ignoring societal evolution. Recent cases, like the one concerning presidential immunity, highlight the difficulties in applying historical principles to modern legal disputes and underscore the contention surrounding the adaptability and reliability of originalism in the present day legal landscape.
Dahlia Lithwick is a lawyer, journalist and best-selling author. She is also the host of Slate’s podcast, Amicus, about the law and the Supreme Court. Dahlia joins Preet to discuss the different methods of constitutional interpretation and how one doctrine in particular has taken over this Supreme Court.
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