Pros And Cons Of Written And Unwritten Constitutions

846 Words4 Pages
In order and to discuss the pros and cons of both written and unwritten constitutions, we must first define the terminology used. While the ‘written’ and ‘unwritten’ constitutions seem easily distinguishable based on their descriptions, it is important to note that often times an unwritten constitution simply means that the laws of the state are not compiled into one original document. An unwritten constitution is generally the result of historical development. It was never made by a representative assembly at a specific point in the historical timeline, nor is it declared the official “law of the land” on any particular date. Because it has been culminated and refined over time, it is sometimes called an evolved or cumulative constitution.…show more content…
A written constitution is found in one or more than one legal documents duly enacted in the form of laws. It is meant to operate as precise, definite, and systematic. It is the result of the conscious and deliberate efforts of the people. A written constitution is generally more rigid and a procedure separate from that of modifying ordinary law, also known as state or provincial legislation, is provided for its amendment or revision. In other words, a distinction between constitutional law and ordinary law is maintained and the first is regarded as superior to the second. The first written constitution framed by a representative constituent assembly was that of the United States of…show more content…
One of the advantages of having a written constitution is that it’s clear and precise and is essentially free of ambiguities. Today, many constitutions are proving to be quite the opposite. Challenges often arise when whats written in the constitution no longer portrays a parallel with the conditions of society. A written constitution cannot easily cope with the changes that take place over time. The constitution needs to be modified in order to deal with such changes, and the necessary process to do so can be complex and

More about Pros And Cons Of Written And Unwritten Constitutions

Open Document