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?

Courts should not try to interpret the laws.
Courts should interpret laws and the Constitution.
Courts should follow the laws but not the Constitution itself.
Courts should follow the laws of the legislature.

Answer 1

Courts should interpret laws and the Constitution.

Hamilton says judges must determine the meaning of the Constitution (the fundamental law) as well as legislative acts, so interpretation is the courts' proper role.