Final answer:
The Commerce Clause is one of the clauses in the Constitution that has seen the most significant change in interpretation, leading to an expansion of federal power and affecting the balance of powers between government branches. The Constitution's adaptability through judicial review, rather than formal amendments, has ensured its relevance over 225 years.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the most prominent clauses in the Constitution that has changed in interpretation since it was originally written is the Commerce Clause. The interpretation of this clause has significantly evolved, particularly in its use to justify the expansion of federal power over local and interstate commerce. This broad interpretation by the Supreme Court provided several advantages, such as creating a more unified national market and addressing issues that transcend state borders, such as the environment, labor rights, and civil rights.
The changing interpretation of the Commerce Clause also affects the balance of power among the branches of government. The Supreme Court's broad interpretation enhances federal power, which can tip the balance away from states and potentially shift authority towards the legislative and executive branches when they act on commerce-related issues. The concerns people have with the Court's view of the clause revolve around fears of an overly powerful federal government that could override state autonomy and preferences.
In addition to the Commerce Clause, the interpretation of the Bill of Rights, specifically the freedom of speech, has also evolved over time. This illustrates that the Constitution is not a static document but is interpreted in light of the societal values and challenges of each generation. Despite the framers making it difficult to formally amend the Constitution, its flexibility and the practice of judicial review have made it a living document that continues to adapt and evolve over more than two centuries.