How do customs and traditions influence the Constitution?

Customs and traditions play a crucial role in shaping the Constitution by facilitating informal adaptations that enhance the document's relevance over time. Unlike formal amendments, which require a complex process to implement, informal adaptations occur through practices established by governmental entities or societal norms that evolve alongside constitutional principles.

For example, various presidential practices that have developed over the years, such as the establishment of a Cabinet and executive orders, are not explicitly outlined in the Constitution but are rooted in longstanding traditions. These customs allow for flexibility and responsiveness to changing societal needs without the necessity of altering the text of the Constitution itself. This adaptability underscores the importance of both the written document and the customary practices that operate within it, demonstrating how the Constitution can adapt through longstanding traditions and norms rather than through rigid amendments or changes.