From 1890 until his passing in 1917, American jurist Samuel Freeman Miller was an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. He is well-known for his opinions on the power of the state, especially with regard to how it can modify laws to suit its objectives.

Governments, in his opinion, are like sculptors working with a huge block of marble. Governments have almost limitless power to shape society through legislation, just as a sculptor can carve away at stone to create any shape they desire. This merely emphasizes the inherent capability that exists; it does not imply that all governments will exercise their authority sensibly or morally.

Free governments, in particular, have this kind of power over the lives of their citizens, according to Miller. Regardless of whether they are a democracy or another type of government, they have the power to enact laws and amend them as needed. Although this adaptability makes it possible to adjust to new difficulties or changes in society, it also creates the possibility of abuse if checks and balances are not in place.

His viewpoint emphasizes the significance of comprehending how power functions within governmental structures and the need for citizens to exercise vigilance regarding the use of power by their elected representatives.