=as above...= > "in evil or reckless hands it can cause ... the dominant group to wither and disappear. there is no redemption for the individual whom the law touches. any experiment which the state conducts is to his irreparable injury. he is forever deprived of a basic liberty." skinner v. oklahoma, 316 u.s. 535, 541 (1942). > "the police power itself is an attribute of sovereignty. it exists without any reservation in the constitution. it is founded on the right of the state to protect its citizens, to provide for their welfare and progress and to insure the good of society." meyer v. nebraska, 262 u.s. 390, 395 (1923).    the idea is that the state, much like an individual, possesses an instinctual drive toward self-preservation and societal maintenance. this right is derived not from the constitution but from the very nature of the state itself, a natural extension of its responsibilities. > "it corresponds to the right of self preservation in the individual." 262 u.s. at 395.   here, the court compares the police power of the state to an individual's instinct for self-preservation. just as an individual has a natural right to protect themselves, so too does the state have the rightand dutyto protect itself and its citizens. > "its application varies with the exigencies of the situation and with the progress of mankind." 262 u.s. at 395.  this portion highlights the adaptability of police power. the needs of society change over time due to shifts in technology, population, and social values. consequently, the scope and application of police power must evolve to meet these changing circumstances. the phrase "with the progress of mankind" underscores that police power is not static but dynamic, meaning it must continuously adapt to new challenges and situations in order to maintain social order and welfare.
United States