What doctrine is used to evaluate potential discrimination cases?

The correct answer is the Strict Scrutiny Test, which is the highest standard of judicial review used by courts in evaluating laws or policies that potentially discriminate against individuals based on race, national origin, or fundamental rights. When a law is challenged as discriminatory, the government must demonstrate that the law serves a compelling state interest and is narrowly tailored to achieve that interest with the least restrictive means. This rigorous examination ensures that any infringement on individual rights or protections against discrimination is justified and necessary.

The Strict Scrutiny Test plays a crucial role in protecting minority groups and ensuring that any government action that could discriminate is subjected to intense scrutiny. By requiring a compelling justification, the test also serves as a strong deterrent against unjust laws that could perpetuate inequality.

Other doctrines mentioned, such as the Separation of Powers, apply to the distribution of authority among the branches of government and not specifically to discrimination cases. The Lemon Test evaluates whether a law violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment regarding religion, and the Clear and Present Danger Test assesses the limits of free speech in situations where speech poses a serious threat to national security or public safety. These doctrines address different legal issues and are not suitable frameworks for evaluating discrimination cases.