Approach Quote by Warren E. Burger
![“[I]n constitutional adjudication some steps, which when taken were thought to approach 'the verge,' have become the platform for yet further steps. A certain momentum develops in constitutional theory and it can be a 'downhill thrust' easily set in motion but difficult to retard or stop.” quote by Warren E. Burger](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/7fe/warren-e-burger-20339_approach_i-n-constitutional-adjudication-some-ste_2574679.jpg)
“[I]n constitutional adjudication some steps, which when taken were thought to approach 'the verge,' have become the platform for yet further steps. A certain momentum develops in constitutional theory and it can be a 'downhill thrust' easily set in motion but difficult to retard or stop.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: “Constitutional Theory” by Chief Justice Warren E. Burger, 1972
Legal doctrines evolve step by step, gaining momentum that can be hard to stop once set in motion.
In simple terms: Legal ideas grow and become hard to reverse.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the power of incremental legal change.
Themes
law
progress
momentum
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
academic
legal
When to use this quote
- legislative drafting
- court decisions
- policy analysis
Key Concepts
constitutional theory
judicial precedent
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure careful legal evolution?
- What safeguards prevent runaway jurisprudence?
A Different Perspective
Momentum can lead to unintended consequences.
![“Under our [constitutional system] - either we're going to have to rethink our Constitution, or we're going to have to rethink our process of decision-making.” quote by Newt Gingrich](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/97e/newt-gingrich-792_constitution_under-our-constitutional-system-either-w_2363128.jpg)
![“[No one will be able to] deter the scientific mind from probing into the unknown any more than Canute could command the tides.” quote by Warren E. Burger](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b3d/warren-e-burger-20339_able_no-one-will-be-able-to-deter-the-scienti_477708.jpg)
