What is Constitutionalism?
Constitutionalism refers to the principle that a government’s authority is defined, limited, and guided by a constitution—a set of fundamental rules or laws. It emphasizes the rule of law, ensuring power is exercised in a way that respects individual rights, democratic processes, and institutional checks and balances. It’s not just about having a constitution but about living by its spirit, where everyone—rulers and citizens alike—is accountable to it.
In simpler terms, constitutionalism is about making sure no one is above the law, and the system protects fairness, justice, and freedom through a structured framework.
Templated Meaning of “Any-ism”
An “-ism” typically describes a belief, principle, or system of thought that guides actions, behaviors, or structures. It often reflects a specific ideology, doctrine, or approach to organizing ideas or society. To understand “any-ism,” you can break it down like this:
- Core Idea: What’s the central value or concept? (e.g., for constitutionalism, it’s the supremacy of the constitution.)
- Application: How is it practiced or enforced? (e.g., through laws, courts, or democratic institutions.)
- Impact: What does it aim to achieve? (e.g., stability, fairness, or accountability.)
So, an “-ism” is like a lens or framework that shapes how we approach a concept, whether it’s socialism (shared resources), humanism (valuing human dignity), or rationalism (prioritizing reason).
Example of Constitutionalism
In India, constitutionalism shines through the Indian Constitution, enacted in 1950. A practical example is the Supreme Court’s role in upholding fundamental rights. For instance, in 2018, the Supreme Court struck down Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which criminalized consensual same-sex relationships. This decision reflected constitutionalism by ensuring the right to equality and personal liberty (Article 14 and Article 21) took precedence, protecting individual freedoms against outdated laws. It showed how the Constitution isn’t just a document but a living framework that checks power and promotes justice.
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