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The language of judicial decision is mainly the language…

“The language of judicial decision is mainly the language of logic. And the logical method and form flatter that longing for certainty and for repose which is in every human mind. But certainty generally is illusion, and repose is not the destiny of man.” quote by Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr
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“The language of judicial decision is mainly the language of logic. And the logical method and form flatter that longing for certainty and for repose which is in every human mind. But certainty generally is illusion, and repose is not the destiny of man.”

Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Legal reasoning seeks certainty, but true certainty is illusory; human minds crave stability that law cannot guarantee.

In simple terms: Law tries for certainty, but it's an illusion.

Key Takeaway

Embrace uncertainty in legal judgments.

Themes

law logic certainty

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

legal philosophical

When to use this quote

  • court decisions
  • legislative drafting
  • legal education
  • public policy

Key Concepts

philosophy epistemology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can lawyers balance logic with uncertainty?
  • What role does doubt play in justice?
A Different Perspective

Overreliance on certainty can lead to rigid rulings.

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