Commentator: A political constitution that provides the framework for the laws of a nation must be interpreted to apply to new situations not envisioned by its authors. Although these interpretations express the moral and political beliefs of the interpreters, they are usually portrayed as embodying the intentions of the authors. This fiction is vital because without it the illusion
necessary for political stability, that laws are the bequest of a long tradition rather than the preferences of contemporary politicians would vanish.
Political instability will increase if the people of a nation cease to believe that their constitution is being interpreted consistently with the intentions of its authors.