Understanding the Judiciary

The video discusses the judiciary's role in the U.S. government, highlighting its power through judicial review, which allows it to overturn laws and presidential actions deemed unconstitutional. It explains the concept of a constitutional democracy, where the majority's will is limited by the Constitution. The qualifications for judges are explored, noting that while the Constitution doesn't specify criteria, presidents typically nominate lawyers. The video also examines different perspectives on how judges should interpret the law, emphasizing the balance between objective rulings and the use of judgment in complex cases.

Which branch of government is described as having the fewest words in the Constitution?

• Executive

• Legislative

• Judiciary

• Military

What power does the judiciary have that allows it to overturn laws passed by Congress?

• Judicial review

• Executive order

• Presidential pardon

• Legislative veto

What is the term used to describe the judiciary's power to declare laws unconstitutional?

• Judicial activism

• Judicial restraint

• Judicial review

• Judicial independence

What type of democracy does the U.S. have, where the will of the majority is limited by the Constitution?

• Parliamentary democracy

• Social democracy

• Constitutional democracy

• Direct democracy

Who is responsible for nominating judges to the federal courts?

• The Supreme Court

• The Senate

• The President

• The House of Representatives

How long do federal judges serve once appointed?

• 10 years

• 20 years

• Until retirement age

• For life

What is the primary job of the judicial branch?

• To amend laws

• To create laws

• To enforce laws

• To interpret laws

What analogy is used to describe how some believe judges should interpret the law?

• Like a fan

• Like a player

• Like a coach

• Like an umpire

What can the people do if they disagree with the Supreme Court's interpretation of the Constitution?

• Amend the Constitution

• Appeal to the President

• Impeach the judges

• Ignore the ruling

Who ultimately decides what the Constitution means?

• The Congress

• The people

• The President

• The Supreme Court