PoliticsAugust 22, 2026
nonoriginalist
non-uh-RIJ-uh-nul-ist
Definition
Referring to methods of constitutional interpretation that do not strictly adhere to the original public meaning or intent of the text at the time of its adoption.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'non' (not) and the English 'originalist,' a term for those who interpret the Constitution based on its original meaning. The prefix 'non-' negates the focus on the historical 'original' intent.
In the news
The authors argue that both originalist and nonoriginalist legal frameworks lead to the conclusion that exclusionary zoning laws are unconstitutional. This highlights that constitutional arguments against zoning do not rely solely on one specific school of legal interpretation.
A New Road to Affordable Housing?
Read the full article ↗The Regulatory Review