Question

page 158 why do you think the elastic clause is still important today?
page 163 why is judicial review, although not mentioned in the constitution, an important activity of the supreme court?

Explanation:

1. For the Elastic Clause question: The Elastic Clause (Necessary and Proper Clause) lets Congress pass laws needed to carry out its explicit constitutional powers. It adapts the government to modern, unforeseen issues (like tech regulation, pandemic responses) that didn't exist when the Constitution was written, keeping the federal government functional and relevant.
2. For the judicial review question: Judicial review, established in Marbury v. Madison, lets the Supreme Court check if laws and executive actions align with the Constitution. It upholds the rule of law, prevents overreach by the legislative and executive branches, and protects individual rights by striking down unconstitutional measures.

Answer:

1. The Elastic Clause remains important because it gives the U.S. federal government the flexibility to create laws and policies that address modern, unforeseen challenges (such as digital privacy, public health crises, and national security threats) that were not anticipated when the Constitution was drafted, ensuring the government can function effectively in a changing world.
2. Judicial review is critical because it serves as a key check and balance: it allows the Supreme Court to invalidate laws or executive actions that violate the U.S. Constitution, upholding the rule of law, preventing overreach by the legislative and executive branches, and protecting the rights and liberties of individuals as defined in the Constitution.