I've always said that at the end of the day, on a legal issue, I think a wise old woman and a wise old man are going to reach the same conclusion.
Sandra Day O'ConnorRead
Yes, I will bring the understanding of a woman to the Court, but I doubt that alone will affect my decisions.
Interpretation
Understanding a woman's perspective is valuable, but it should not solely dictate one's decisions.
In this quote, Sandra Day O'Connor emphasizes the importance of incorporating diverse perspectives, particularly women's understanding, in decision-making processes. However, she acknowledges that while this understanding is important, it is not the only factor that influences her judgments, highlighting the need for a broader range of considerations in any decision-making context.
In practice
In a speech advocating for gender equality in leadership roles.
I've always said that at the end of the day, on a legal issue, I think a wise old woman and a wise old man are going to reach the same conclusion.
In order to cultivate a set of leaders with legitimacy in the eyes of the citizenry, it is necessary that the path to leadership be visibly open to talented and qualified individuals of every race and ethnicity.
In my work a good library is essential. It enables me to learn the background and previous discussions of the various issues I am called upon to decide. It provides the stability and continuity for the rule of law.
The really expert riders of horses let the horse know immediately who is in control, but then they guide the horse with loose reins and very seldom use the spurs. So it was with our chief [William Rehnquist]. He guided us with loose reins and used the spurs only rarely to get us up to speed with our work.
It is difficult to discern a serious threat to religious liberty from a room of silent, thoughtful schoolchildren.
It was better for me when I was joined at the court by a second woman. When I was there alone, there was too much media focus on the one woman, and the minute we got another woman, that changed.
Your body has to be in top condition. Your Chess deteriorates as your body does. You can't separate body from mind
When I learnt to write I became my own master, I became very strong, and that strength is with me to this very day.
There is no ideal world for you to wait around for. The world is always just what it is now, and it's up to you how you respond to it.
Sir Isaac Newton was asked how he discovered the law of gravity. He replied, "By thinking about it all the time.
I have need of angels. Enough hell has swallowed me for too many years. But finally understand this--I have burned up one hundred thousand human lives already, from the strength of my pain.
The measure of human character is our reaction to dark times. No one can sidestep darkness. It is the throne upon which light sits. If a soul has not known sadness and struggle, there is no chance of overcoming, no cherishing the dawn.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.