Constitutionalism
Modern legal and political theory
Government power is limited by higher norms and authority depends on observing them.
Historical context
Debates about constitutionalism span written traditions and historical conventions. Modern accounts distinguish the rules that constitute government from decisions it can make through ordinary procedures.
Overview
The practical question is what officeholders may do when higher law sets a limit. Constitutional systems respond through amendment procedures, division of powers, conventions, and oversight mechanisms that can vary considerably.
Main claims
The authority of governing bodies is subject to higher institutional limits.
Constitutional limits
Government authority depends on observing constitutional limits.
Interpretation for comparison · Constitutionalism · Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy
Undivided sovereignty
Constitutionalism admits limited authorities and distinguishes government from constituent power.
Interpretation for comparison · Constitutionalism · Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy
Debates and nuances
Limits may be enforced through different judicial and political arrangements.
The assessment compares only the positions documented in this entry.