Our greatest leaders are neither dreamers nor dictators: They are, like Jefferson, those who articulate national aspirations yet master the mechanics of influence and know when to depart from dogma.
Jon MeachamRead
Justified or not, the Supreme Court has a kind of sacred status in American life. For whatever reason, Presidents can safely run against Congress, and vice versa, but I think there is an inherent popular aversion to assaults on the court itself. Perhaps it has to do with an instinctive belief that life needs umpires.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The Supreme Court holds a revered position in American society, embodying the belief in impartial justice.
This quote by Jon Meacham illustrates the Supreme Court's esteemed role in American life, suggesting that despite political differences, people inherently respect the court as a necessary arbiter of justice. The idea is that this respect stems from a collective understanding that a fair system, much like a game, requires impartial overseers to function correctly, and any perceived attack on the court threatens the integrity of the judicial system.
Themes
Supreme CourtJusticeAuthorityRespectAmericansPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about judicial independence during a law school lecture.
More from Jon Meacham
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As crucial as religion has been and is to the life of the nation, America's unifying force has never been a specific faith, but a commitment to freedom - not least freedom of conscience.
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The perennial conviction that those who work hard and play by the rules will be rewarded with a more comfortable present and a stronger future for their children faces assault from just about every direction. That great enemy of democratic capitalism, economic inequality, is real and growing.
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A wise nation should cultivate a political spirit that allows opponents to cooperate without fearing an automatic execution from their core supporters. Who knew that the real rogues in American politics would be the ones who dare to get along?
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One of the earliest resurrection scenes in the Bible is that of Thomas demanding evidence - he wanted to see, to touch, to prove. Those who question and probe and debate are heirs of the apostles just as much as the most fervent of believers.
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