What is an amendment?

An amendment refers specifically to a formal change or addition made to a constitution, which serves as the foundational legal document of a country or state. In the context of the United States Constitution, amendments are changes that can alter its original text, create new provisions, or eliminate existing ones. This process allows for the Constitution to adapt over time, reflecting the evolving values and needs of society.

The significance of amendments is underscored by the formal procedure established in Article V of the Constitution, which requires substantial consensus for an amendment to be ratified. This ensures that only those changes which represent a broad national agreement or necessity are adopted, underscoring democracy and stability in governance.

The other options present different concepts within the framework of governance. A judicial review process pertains to the authority of courts to evaluate the constitutionality of legislative and executive actions. An executive order is a directive issued by the President that manages federal operations and has the force of law but does not amend the Constitution itself. A law passed by Congress, while important, is also distinct from an amendment, as laws are subject to different procedural requirements and do not change the foundational text of the Constitution.