What are "enumerated rights" in the context of constitutional law?

Enumerated rights refer to those rights that are explicitly listed in the Constitution. This term is often used in discussions about the Bill of Rights, which is the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution that clearly outline specific rights and freedoms guaranteed to individuals. For instance, rights such as the freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, and protections against unreasonable searches and seizures are all enumerated rights because they are clearly stated in the text of the Constitution.

The understanding of enumerated rights is crucial in constitutional law because they provide a clear framework for legal protection of individual liberties. Courts often refer to these enumerated rights when interpreting laws and making decisions on matters related to civil liberties.

In contrast, rights that are implied but not specifically stated typically fall under the heading of "unenumerated rights." Rights granted by state constitutions are recognized but pertain specifically to state-level protections, rather than being derived from the federal Constitution. Lastly, rights based on societal norms are more subjective and can vary over time and between different cultures, making them less legally binding compared to those explicitly enumerated in the Constitution.