Textualism is a method of legal interpretation that focuses on the ordinary meaning of the words in a law or legal document at the time it was written. This approach emphasizes the text itself, rather than considering the intentions of the lawmakers or the consequences of the law. Textualists believe that the law should be applied as it is written, ensuring consistency and predictability in legal decisions. One of the most prominent advocates of textualism is Justice Antonin Scalia, who served on the U.S. Supreme Court. He argued that interpreting laws based on their text helps maintain the rule of law and prevents judges from imposing their personal views. Textualism is often contrasted with other interpretive methods, such as intentionalism and purposivism.