Political Institutions Constitutional Law Questions
A written constitution is a formal document that outlines the fundamental principles, structures, and functions of a government. It is typically codified in a single document or a series of documents, such as a constitution or a charter. A written constitution is usually the result of a deliberate and conscious effort to establish a framework for governance.
On the other hand, an unwritten constitution refers to a system of government where the fundamental principles and rules are not contained in a single written document. Instead, they are derived from a combination of statutes, court decisions, conventions, and historical practices. An unwritten constitution evolves over time and is often based on a country's history, traditions, and customs.
The main difference between a written and unwritten constitution lies in their form and source of authority. A written constitution is explicit, precise, and can be easily referred to, while an unwritten constitution relies on various sources and is more flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances. Additionally, a written constitution is typically more difficult to amend or change, requiring a formal and often lengthy process, whereas an unwritten constitution can be modified more easily through legislative or judicial actions.
It is important to note that the distinction between written and unwritten constitutions is not always clear-cut, as many countries have a combination of both. Some countries may have a written constitution that is supplemented by unwritten conventions and practices, while others may have an unwritten constitution that is supported by written laws and court decisions.