In discussing the general powers of the national government, Hamilton identifies a criterion of what is constitutional, and of what is not so. This criterion is the end, to which the measure relates as a mean. If the end be clearly comprehended within any of the specified powers, and if the measure have an obvious relation to that end, and is not forbidden by any particular provision of the Constitution, it may safely be deemed to come within the compass of the national authority.

DEFINE: Explains Hamilton's criterion for constitutionality: a measure is constitutional if its end falls under an enumerated power, has an obvious relation to that end, and isn't forbidden. This is the basis of the doctrine of implied powers.

Philip Chase Bobbitt, Philip Chase Bobbitt - Refl…, loc. 220