Final answer:
The framers, particularly in Federalist No. 78, described the judiciary as the 'least dangerous branch' due to its lack of power to enforce its rulings directly, in contrast to the executive's control of the military and the legislature's control of finances.
Step-by-step explanation:
The framers of the United States Constitution described the judiciary as the "least dangerous branch". In Federalist No. 78, Alexander Hamilton specifically characterized the judiciary as having "neither force nor will, but merely judgment" and therefore being the least capable of threatening the political rights enshrined in the Constitution. Unlike the executive branch, which wields the sword, or the legislative branch, which controls the purse, the judiciary has no direct influence over the nation's military or financial resources. Hamilton argued that due to this lack of power to enforce its rulings, it poses the least threat to the constitutionally protected rights of the people.
However, the role of the Supreme Court and its power in interpreting the Constitution has evolved significantly since Hamilton's time, as evidenced by its capacity to make landmark decisions. These decisions, such as the one allowing random drug testing of high school students in extracurricular activities, illustrate that while the judiciary may not influence the sword or purse, its interpretive rulings have substantial impacts on American society and law.