Which publication did Alexander Hamilton discuss the importance of an independent judiciary?

Which publication did Alexander Hamilton discuss the importance of an independent judiciary?

• A. The Federalist No. 78
• B. Common Sense
• C. Bill of Rights
• D. Federalist No. 10

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is judicial independence—the principle that judges must interpret laws free from political pressure so they can protect rights and uphold the Constitution. In The Federalist No. 78, Alexander Hamilton argues precisely for this independence and explains why judges should have life tenure (during good behavior) to shield them from the other branches and popular whims. He describes the judiciary as the weakest branch, lacking both the sword and the purse, so it must be insulated from legislative control to check laws and protect constitutional rights over time. This essay was written to reassure ratifying delegates that the new government would balance power and prevent tyranny by ensuring a stable, impartial judiciary. Common Sense is Paine’s pamphlet about independence from Britain, not about courts. The Bill of Rights focuses on listing protections for individuals and limits on government power, not on how the judiciary should operate. Federalist No. 10 discusses factions and how to control their effects, not the structure and independence of the courts. The Federalist No. 78 is the one that specifically discusses why an independent judiciary matters.

The idea being tested is judicial independence—the principle that judges must interpret laws free from political pressure so they can protect rights and uphold the Constitution. In The Federalist No. 78, Alexander Hamilton argues precisely for this independence and explains why judges should have life tenure (during good behavior) to shield them from the other branches and popular whims. He describes the judiciary as the weakest branch, lacking both the sword and the purse, so it must be insulated from legislative control to check laws and protect constitutional rights over time. This essay was written to reassure ratifying delegates that the new government would balance power and prevent tyranny by ensuring a stable, impartial judiciary.

Common Sense is Paine’s pamphlet about independence from Britain, not about courts. The Bill of Rights focuses on listing protections for individuals and limits on government power, not on how the judiciary should operate. Federalist No. 10 discusses factions and how to control their effects, not the structure and independence of the courts. The Federalist No. 78 is the one that specifically discusses why an independent judiciary matters.