What principle does strict scrutiny enforce?

Strict scrutiny is a judicial standard applied by courts when reviewing laws or policies that classify individuals based on certain protected characteristics, such as race or national origin. This principle is grounded in the idea that such classifications are inherently discriminatory and therefore warrant a heightened level of judicial review.

When a court applies strict scrutiny, it requires the government to show that the classification serves a compelling government interest. This means that the government must demonstrate that the purpose of the law or policy is of the utmost importance. Additionally, the law or policy must be narrowly tailored to achieve that compelling interest, meaning that it cannot be overbroad or unnecessarily infringe upon individual rights.

In contrast, other principles such as those that protect individual rights equally or prioritize economic interests do not encapsulate the unique requirements of strict scrutiny. Unlike broader legislative authority or equal protection frameworks, strict scrutiny specifically addresses the need for a compelling justification behind laws that may disadvantage certain groups, reinforcing the court's protective stance towards fundamental rights and liberties.