The only way to eliminate any government choice on what art is worthwhile, what art isn't worthwhile, is to get the government totally out of the business of funding.
Antonin ScaliaRead
Society's mores have changed, and what used to be thought not to be cruel and unusual now is thought to be cruel and unusual.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Societal views on morality and justice evolve over time, changing our perception of what is considered cruel and unusual.
This quote by Antonin Scalia highlights the dynamic nature of societal norms and values. What was once acceptable or overlooked in terms of punishment or justice can become viewed as intolerable as society progresses, reflecting the changing moral landscape and the influence of cultural evolution on our understanding of fairness and cruelty. It prompts us to consider how contemporary perspectives shape legal standards and ethical expectations.
Themes
SocietyMoresCrueltyJusticeEvolution
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about the death penalty, one could reference this quote to discuss changing perceptions of punishment.
More from Antonin Scalia
All quotes βIf I have brought any message today, it is this: Have the courage to have your wisdom regarded as stupidity. Be fools for Christ. And have the courage to suffer the contempt of the sophisticated world.
Antonin ScaliaRead
To allow the policy question of same-sex marriage to be considered and resolved by a select, patrician, highly unrepresentative panel of nine is to violate a principle even more fundamental than no taxation without representation: no social transformation without representation.
Antonin ScaliaRead
Until the courts put a stop to it, public debate over same-sex marriage displayed American democracy at its best. Individuals on both sides of the issue passionately, but respectfully, attempted to persuade their fellow citizens to accept their views.
Antonin ScaliaRead
Being a good person begins with being a wise person. Then, when you follow your conscience, will you be headed in the right direction.
Antonin ScaliaRead
If you're going to be a good and faithful judge, you have to resign yourself to the fact that you're not always going to like the conclusions you reach. If you like them all the time, you're probably doing something wrong.
Antonin ScaliaRead
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