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Constitution Quote by Felix Frankfurter

“One is entitled to say without qualification that the correlation between prior judicial experience and fitness for the Supreme Court is zero.” quote by Felix Frankfurter
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“One is entitled to say without qualification that the correlation between prior judicial experience and fitness for the Supreme Court is zero.”

Felix Frankfurter

About This Quote

Source Speech: Harvard Law Review, 1935

Judicial experience doesn't predict Supreme Court fitness; the correlation is zero.

In simple terms: Experience doesn't guarantee Supreme Court suitability.

Key Takeaway

Evaluate judges by competence, not tenure.

Themes

law judiciary experience

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • court nominations
  • law school curriculum
  • legal reforms

Key Concepts

meritocracy judicial selection

Questions to Reflect On

  • What criteria better predict fitness?
  • How to balance experience with fresh perspective?
A Different Perspective

Experience can provide valuable insight.

3.9 out of 5 (3 ratings)

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