The Supreme Court

   The Supreme Court is something I have a little background knowledge on. Throughout middle and high school, we learn the basic fundamentals of our functioning government so I had the basic grasp of the role of the Supreme Court. Once I came to college, I took an American politics course which heavily focused on the part that the Supreme Court plays in our political system.  

    I find it interesting how the Constitution still plays such a large role in the court today. The surprise isn't necessarily based on the content itself. More so in the telling strength that a 200 year old document has stood the test of time because of its flexibility and potential for change and ratification. Even in such different times from the day that our country was founded, the same principles are upheld and built upon as we progress as a society. I feel that I have found a deeper appreciation for the Supreme Court as they spend their life serving as a voice of that living document that protects our freedoms. 

    I appreciated the statement that Justice O'Connor made in regard to how the Justices keep civility. Beginning each meeting by shaking everyone's hand humanizes one another and makes it less likely to hold a grudge if they find themselves disagreeing on a topic. Being able to step back at the end of the day and realize that the judges are all ruling in favor of what they deem fair and just and not out of malice can make conversation and deliberation more productive. Asking difficult questions can be thought provoking and the conversations that the court shares are meant to protect the principles of our nation. 

    One thing I have shifted my perspective on since watching the video is my impression of the Justices as individuals. I tend to clump the idea of the Supreme Court as a whole and forget that there are people up there who experience nervousness and pride and power all the same as I have the potential to. Hearing Ruth Bader Ginsburg speak about her first time sitting in on a Supreme Court case as a judge was an interesting and insightful perspective into what the justices are like outside of the media and that is something I haven't really considered before.