What is the purpose of the Bill of Rights as expressed in its introduction?

The purpose of the Bill of Rights, as articulated in its introduction, primarily focuses on preventing the misunderstanding or misuse of governmental powers, thereby fostering public trust in the government. This introduction serves as a foundational declaration that highlights the intent behind the amendments that follow—aiming to safeguard individual liberties while ensuring that government authority does not overreach or infringe upon those rights. The emphasis on preventing misconstruction underscores the need for clarity and protection against potential abuses of power that may arise in the absence of clearly defined rights.

While other options touch upon important aspects of governance and law, the introduction specifically targets the relationship between the government and the rights of individuals, marking it as a central theme in the Bill of Rights. This understanding is crucial for grasping the overarching goals of the amendments that articulate key civil liberties.