Question

The interpretation of the laws is the proper and peculiar province of the courts. A constitution is, in fact, and must be regarded by the judges, as a fundamental law. It therefore belongs to them to ascertain its meaning, as well as the meaning of any particular act proceeding from the legislative body.
—Alexander Hamilton,
Federalist No. 78
Which statement comes closest to summarizing the meaning of this passage?
Responses

Courts should interpret laws and the Constitution.
Courts should interpret laws and the Constitution.

Courts should not try to interpret the laws.
Courts should not try to interpret the laws.

Courts should follow the laws of the legislature.
Courts should follow the laws of the legislature.

Courts should follow the laws but not the Constitution itself.
Courts should follow the laws but not the Constitution itself.

Answer 1

Courts should interpret laws and the Constitution.

Reason: Hamilton argues that judges are responsible for determining the meaning of the Constitution (a fundamental law) and of legislative acts.