Which amendment states that enumeration of rights shall not deny others retained by the people?

• A. Seventh Amendment
• B. Ninth Amendment
• C. Tenth Amendment
• D. Eighth Amendment

Answer: (B)

This item tests understanding of how rights are protected beyond those that are written. The language states that the enumeration of rights in the Constitution shall not be construed to deny others retained by the people. In plain terms, listing some rights does not imply that other rights don’t exist; people retain unenumerated rights, and the government can’t use a written list to limit them. This idea was added to reassure supporters of fundamental liberties that unlisted freedoms remain protected. Therefore, the ninth amendment is the one that addresses enumeration of rights. Other amendments cover different protections: the seventh deals with jury trials in civil cases, the eighth restricts cruel and unusual punishment and excessive fines, and the tenth reserves powers to the states or the people, none of which address how listing rights interacts with rights not written.