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Constitutionalism is a political philosophy and theory that emphasizes the supremacy of the constitution as the fundamental law of a political entity. It is rooted in the idea that the constitution is the supreme law of the land, and that all other laws and actions of government must be consistent with it. Constitutionalism is often associated with the rule of law, which holds that the law is the supreme authority in a society, and that all individuals, including those in positions of power, are subject to it.

The concept of constitutionalism has its origins in the Enlightenment, with philosophers such as John Locke and Montesquieu advocating for limited government and the protection of individual rights. These ideas were further developed in the United States Constitution, which established a system of checks and balances to prevent the concentration of power and protect individual liberties.

Constitutionalism is often contrasted with constitutionalism, which emphasizes the importance of the constitution as a living document that can be amended and interpreted to reflect the changing needs and values of society. Constitutionalism, on the other hand, emphasizes the importance of preserving the original intent and meaning of the constitution, and is often associated with a more rigid interpretation of the law.

Constitutionalism has been influential in the development of democratic governments around the world, and is often cited as a key principle in the protection of individual rights and the rule of law. However, it has also been criticized for its potential to limit individual freedoms and for its rigid interpretation of the law. Despite these criticisms, constitutionalism remains a central tenet of many democratic societies and continues to be a subject of debate and discussion among scholars and policymakers.