The Flexible U.S. Constitution Explained in 10 Minutes

The video lecture discusses the flexibility of the U.S. Constitution, emphasizing four key aspects: the amendment procedure, the elastic clause, the unwritten constitution, and judicial review. These elements allow the Constitution to adapt to societal changes, ensuring it remains relevant. The amendment process involves a rigorous procedure requiring significant consensus. The elastic clause grants Congress the power to pass necessary laws for new situations. The unwritten constitution encompasses traditions and practices not explicitly stated. Judicial review allows the Supreme Court to interpret laws, ensuring they align with constitutional principles.

Why is it important for the Constitution to be flexible?

• To prevent any changes to the government structure

• To ensure that the Constitution remains the same

• To make it easier to change laws frequently

• To allow the government to adapt to societal changes

What is the amendment procedure in the context of the U.S. Constitution?

• A method to interpret existing laws

• A process to physically change the Constitution

• A way to create new laws without changing the Constitution

• A tradition that is not written down

Which amendment limited the U.S. President to two terms?

• 18th Amendment

• 21st Amendment

• 19th Amendment

• 22nd Amendment

What does the elastic clause allow Congress to do?

• Ignore the Constitution when needed

• Make all laws necessary and proper

• Create unwritten traditions

• Change the Constitution without amendments

What is an example of the unwritten constitution?

• The tradition of a presidential cabinet

• The elastic clause

• The amendment procedure

• Judicial review

Which Supreme Court case established the principle of judicial review?

• Miranda v. Arizona

• Roe v. Wade

• Brown v. Board of Education

• Marbury v. Madison

How does judicial review contribute to the flexibility of the Constitution?

• By establishing unwritten traditions

• By enabling the Supreme Court to interpret laws and the Constitution

• By allowing Congress to make necessary laws

• By creating new amendments