Judicial Activism vs Judicial Restraint
The debate about whether the Supreme Court should actively interpret the Constitution to address modern issues (activism) or defer to elected branches and interpret the text narrowly (restraint).
Real World
The Warren Court (1953–69) exemplified activism, ruling in Brown v Board that segregated schools were unconstitutional; by contrast, Justice Clarence Thomas advocates restraint, arguing courts should not invent rights not in the Constitution's text.
Exam Focus
Avoid labelling entire courts as activist or restrained — cite specific rulings and justices to access higher marks.
How well did you know this?