The Framers' Intent

Strict constructionists look to the intent of the so-called Founding Fathers when interpreting matters of constitutional law. (Modern feminists and others now often refer to the FF as "The Framers" as if calling a bunch of slave-holding white rich guys Framers rather than Fathers will somehow make them more diverse, accessible, and politically correct. I'm what you might call a modern feminist and I think it's pretty silly since Martha, Dolly, and the rest of the Colonial Mothers' Club had what might at best be called an indirect influence over the drafting of these important documents of American History and Politics.) Sometimes, looking to the intent of the people who wrote the Constitution or a law really does help in its interpretation.The problem is that with the passage of time and natural progression (regression?) of society, the intent of these guys becomes significantly less relevant than the underlying principles to which they adhered. Attempts to figure out what they were really thinking tend to lead to rather absurd conclusions, which at times is just what the client ordered when preparing a brief.I myself now have small-f framers at my house and what a blessing it is. These guys display indomitable spirit and formidable carpentry skills. They are also strict constructionists when it comes to best building practices, at least as far as I can tell. Look how much we've done today! We have floor joists galore! Our super-nifty, super-thrifty (we hope), super-efficient tankless water heater has arrived and is fastened to the garage wall. The washing machine, alas, is no longer fastened, although I hear rumors that it will be relocated and become operational once more. My very favorite part about the new water heater (since I haven't had an endless hot steamy shower yet) is the warning label on the front. It includes a rather graphic drawing of a person on fire. Constant Vigilance!