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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.
Jon Meacham
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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.

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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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