1. Which principle is reflected in the passage?
Answer: C
Judicial review is the principle reflected in the passage.
The passage articulates the role of courts in interpreting laws and the constitution, indicating that judges are responsible for ascertaining the meaning of both. This aligns directly with the concept of judicial review, where courts have the authority to evaluate the constitutionality of legislative acts.
A) Judicial activism
Judicial activism refers to the practice of judges making rulings based on personal or political considerations rather than existing law. The passage does not endorse this approach, as it emphasizes the judges' duty to interpret the law rather than to create or modify it based on subjective views.
B) Judicial restraint
Judicial restraint is the principle where judges limit their own power by avoiding the overturning of laws or previous decisions. While this concept is relevant, the passage specifically highlights the necessity for courts to interpret the constitution and laws, which is more indicative of judicial review than restraint.
C) Judicial review
Judicial review is the principle that empowers courts to examine the actions of the legislative body and ensure they align with the constitution. The passage clearly states that it is the courts' responsibility to ascertain the meaning of the constitution and legislative acts, making this the correct reflection of the principle.
D) Judicial supremacy
Judicial supremacy is the idea that the judicial branch has the final say on matters of constitutional interpretation. While the passage discusses the role of courts in interpreting laws, it does not explicitly claim that the judicial branch holds supremacy over other branches, thus making this option less relevant.
Conclusion
Judicial review is the correct answer as it encapsulates the essential role courts play in interpreting laws and the constitution as outlined in the passage. In contrast, the other options either misinterpret the judges' responsibilities or do not align with the principles presented in the text.