Textualism is a method of legal interpretation that emphasizes the importance of the text of a law or constitution. Proponents believe that the meaning of the words used should guide judicial decisions, rather than considering the intentions of the lawmakers or the consequences of the law. This approach seeks to maintain objectivity and consistency in legal rulings. A key figure in the development of textualism is Justice Antonin Scalia, who served on the U.S. Supreme Court. He argued that judges should focus on the ordinary meaning of the text at the time it was written, ensuring that the law is applied as it was intended by its authors.