Behavior Quote by Richard Posner
“The confidentiality of the judicial process would not matter greatly to an understanding and evaluation of the legal system if the consequences of judicial behavior could be readily determined. If you can determine the ripeness of a cantaloupe by squeezing or smelling it, you don't have to worry about the produce clerk's mental processes.”
About This Quote
Source Article: Legal Theory, 1990
Judicial outcomes matter more than hidden mental processes in evaluating law.
In simple terms: Focus on results, not judges' thoughts.
Key Takeaway
Assess law by its effects.
Themes
law
judiciary
evaluation
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
philosophical
legal
When to use this quote
- court decisions
- policy analysis
- public trust
Key Concepts
legal theory
outcome bias
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we measure fairness beyond outcomes?
- Can intent be inferred reliably?
A Different Perspective
Ignores the role of intent and fairness.
