Final answer:
The Constitution guides the judiciary in interpreting and ruling on cases. The Supreme Court, through judicial review, has the power to determine the constitutionality of governmental acts, ensuring the Constitution evolves with society while preserving individual rights and influencing public policy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Role of the Constitution in Judicial Judgments
The Constitution serves as the supreme law of the land, guiding the judiciary in its interpretations and decisions. According to Chief Justice Charles Evans Hughes, the Constitution is perceived through the interpretation of the judges. This idea aligns with the concept that the courts, particularly the Supreme Court, function as a 'continuing constitutional convention,' with the authority to interpret and sometimes redefine the meaning of constitutional text as society evolves.
The Supreme Court's power of judicial review, although not explicitly stated in the Constitution, was established early in the nation's history. This power enables the Court to assess the constitutionality of any act of the government, ensuring that no legislative action can contravene the Constitution. Therefore, judges play a significant role as policymakers, influencing public policy and social conflict through their interpretations. Landmark decisions on cases that determine civil liberties and rights further emphasize the judiciary's influence on law enforcement and social norms.
Some legal scholars, such as Joseph Story, advocate for a fixed interpretation of the Constitution, believing that it should not be subject to fluctuations of the time. However, the practice of judicial review has shown that the Constitution is a living document, continually adapted by the judiciary to meet the needs of modern society, ensuring that rights and freedoms evolve alongside cultural and societal changes.