Accepting Quote by Robert Bork
“The judge's authority derives entirely from the fact that he is applying the law and not his personal values. That is why the American public accepts the decisions of its courts, accepts even decisions that nullify the laws a majority of the electorate or their representatives voted for.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Antitrust Paradox by Robert Bork, 1978
Judicial legitimacy rests on impartial application of law, not personal belief, allowing courts to overturn majority preferences when law demands.
In simple terms: Judges must follow law, not personal views, to stay legitimate.
Key Takeaway
Respect law over personal bias.
Themes
law
judiciary
legitimacy
democracy
checks and balances
Mood
respectful
analytical
serious
Type
legal
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- court decisions
- legislative conflicts
- public trust
- policy enforcement
Key Concepts
rule of law
judicial independence
constitutional authority
Questions to Reflect On
- Should judges prioritize law over majority will?
- How to balance democratic input with legal constraints?
A Different Perspective
Law may conflict with popular opinion, causing public dissent.
![“[The current governing judicial philosophy is:] If you want something passionately enough, it is guaranteed by the Constitution. No need to fiddle around gathering votes from recalcitrant citizens.” quote by Robert Bork](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/56e/robert-bork-16437_citizens_the-current-governing-judicial-philosoph_129141.jpg)
![“When a judge goes beyond [his proper function] and reads entirely new values into the Constitution, values the framers and ratifiers did not put there, he deprives the people of their liberty. That liberty, which the Constitution clearly envisions, is the liberty of the people to set their own…” quote by Robert Bork](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/077/robert-bork-16437_agendas_when-a-judge-goes-beyond-his-proper-func_625664.jpg)
