"Judicial activism" refers to the practice of judges using their judicial authority to interpret laws in ways that align with their personal beliefs or broader social goals rather than strictly adhering to established legal principles or precedents. Critics argue that it undermines the rule of law by allowing judges to impose their values on society. Proponents contend that it is necessary for ensuring justice and adapting the law to contemporary societal needs, especially in cases where existing legislation may be outdated or inadequate to address modern challenges.