What are some differing views on the role of the courts in our society?

Differing views on the role of the courts in society often revolve around judicial activism versus judicial restraint. Proponents of judicial activism argue that courts should interpret laws broadly and protect individual rights, especially when legislative bodies fail to do so. In contrast, advocates of judicial restraint believe courts should defer to elected officials and uphold laws as written, limiting their role to interpreting rather than making policy. These perspectives influence debates on issues such as civil rights, social justice, and the balance of power among government branches.