Question
Q37. A constitutional government by definition is a
a. government by legislature
b. popular government
c. multi-party government
d. limited government
Answer: d
Detailed Explanation
Constitutionalism has a variety of meanings.
• Most generally, it is “a complex of ideas, attitudes, and patterns of behavior elaborating the principle that the authority of government derives from and is limited by a body of fundamental law”.
• Constitutionalism’ means limited government or limitation on government. It is the antithesis of arbitrary powers. Constitutionalism recognizes the need for a government with powers but at the same time insists that limitation be placed on those powers.
• The antithesis of constitutionalism is despotism. A government that goes beyond its limits loses its authority and legitimacy. Constitutionalism could be seen as constituting the following elements:
• government according to the constitution;
• separation of power;
• sovereignty of the people and democratic government;
• constitutional review; independent judiciary;
• limited government subject to a bill of individual rights;
• controlling the police;
• civilian control of the military;
• and no state power, or very limited and strictly circumscribed state power, to suspend the operation of some parts of, or the entire, constitution.
