Wilson’s Justification for the Role and Importance of the Judicial Branch- Unveiling the Underlying Reasons
What Reason Does Wilson Give for Why the Judicial Branch?
The establishment of the judicial branch within the framework of the United States government is a topic that has intrigued scholars and legal experts for centuries. One of the most influential figures in American political thought, Woodrow Wilson, provides a compelling rationale for the necessity of the judicial branch in his seminal work, “The Study of Administration.” In this article, we will delve into Wilson’s reasoning and explore the key arguments he presents to justify the existence of the judicial branch.
Woodrow Wilson, a prominent political scientist and former president of the United States, believed that the judicial branch played a crucial role in maintaining the balance of power among the three branches of government. He argued that the legislative and executive branches, while essential for the functioning of the government, were inherently prone to corruption and abuse of power. To counteract this, Wilson posited that the judicial branch served as a safeguard against such maladies.
One of the primary reasons Wilson gave for the necessity of the judicial branch was its role in interpreting the Constitution. He believed that the judicial branch was uniquely equipped to interpret the Constitution’s provisions and ensure that both the legislative and executive branches operated within the confines of the Constitution. According to Wilson, the judicial branch’s primary responsibility was to protect the Constitution from being eroded by the other branches of government.
Another reason Wilson highlighted was the need for an impartial arbiter in disputes between the states and the federal government. He argued that the judicial branch would serve as a neutral party in resolving conflicts, thereby preventing the federal government from overstepping its bounds and infringing upon the rights of the states. This role of the judicial branch, according to Wilson, was essential for maintaining the federal system of government and ensuring that the states remained viable entities.
Furthermore, Wilson emphasized the importance of the judicial branch in upholding the rule of law. He believed that the judicial branch played a critical role in ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their status or influence, were subject to the law. By providing a mechanism for resolving disputes and enforcing legal decisions, the judicial branch helped to create a society where justice was accessible to all.
In conclusion, Woodrow Wilson’s reasoning for the necessity of the judicial branch is multifaceted. He argued that the judicial branch serves as a check on the legislative and executive branches, interprets the Constitution, resolves disputes between the states and the federal government, and upholds the rule of law. By examining Wilson’s arguments, we gain a deeper understanding of the importance of the judicial branch in maintaining a balanced and just government.