Roberts, Reasonableness, and Society at large

Again the old spector of conservative "divisiveness' and just plain old "Mean-ness" is being brought out in the popular press and by, no doubt, your favorite blowhard senators as a brand on Judge Roberts.

Beneath his black robes, what does Roberts reveal of his values as a human being?
by Nat Hentoff appeals to the humanity of the semi-famous "french fry" case in which the family of a 12 year old arrested for violating rules prohibiting eating on the DC Metro sued for injuction and relief for the way she was treated (transport to station and booked).

Key facts:
- Trash and food remnants had become a big problem in the Metro.
- A special Zero-Tolerance "Enforcement Week" program was in force to highlight the rules
- At the time of arrest, adult violation resulted in citations issued.
But there was no method of doing so, as a minor at the time; this was later changed due to the case publicity.

Hentoff argues that Roberts evidently has no heart. And tugs at our heartstrings for this cold ruthless decision. And Asks what kind of human being is it that acts with no consideration of the particular feelings involved.

While I would certainly be as outraged as the girl's mother was, and might consider bringing the matter to court, just as she did... I THINK I would have been able to be pursuaded at some time in the future that this had higher ramifications..

But that doesnt matter, in the end... the Law is the Law and the Law is, necessarily sometimes, an ASS!

What Hentoff does not address in this touchy feely is the fact that Roberts' panel ruled unanimously, as did the lower court, before. Not exactly a convincing argument that Roberts goes against the grain of current thinking, is it?

He cites other cases where a judge "exercised compassion" yet does not state the particulars. And I am sorry if you disagree but "Particulars MATTER". Particulars is what the law is about.

So, while Kennedy, NARAL et al bleat about the dangers to privacy and personal freedom, I'll ask Hentoff just how much "Personal Freedom" and individual latitude is enough. Or wil he be happy once the DC Metro is as much a disgusting mess as the NY Subway was 25 years ago.

Or maybe I'll suggest that the "public good" might well be served if the Justices were subject to 'confirmation' votes every four years, as in California.
Wonder what Hentoff would write about THAT?

The case

 

well...someone hasn't ridden the DC metro in a long time have they.

it takes so long from point A to point B that you need to eat and drink, otherwise you run the risk of starving to death midway.

 

No I havent and I find that sad. On both counts. I was proud of the DC Metro when it first opened.. It rivaled Paris'

But i am WELL aware of "before" and "after" on the NY lines. Takes a certain type of administration to keep order... while those who champion 'free expression' work against it.

 

DC metro is still pretty clean and efficent during rush hour. However, if its Saturday afternoon and you want to go somewhere, you'd better be prepared to wait 10-15 minutes for your train to come.

Paris' metro is ok, but really nothing rivals the underground in my opinion.

 

Re: RE: Roberts, Reasonableness, and Society at large

That's a whole different thing, then! What you're saying is, you want more taxes for your convenience?

Rivals it for what? I liked it.. again a long time ago.. but in what way?

Hey... arent we getting off it?

 

RE: Re: RE: Roberts, Reasonableness, and Society at large

its efficent and clean (usually).

I think arguing about Roberts is pointless at this stage of the game...I'd rather talk about who has nicer public transportion systems...haha

 

RE: Re: RE: Roberts, Reasonableness, and Society at large

My thought on the confirmation hearings is this...

All those who don't think that he should be asked very pointed questions about his opinions should think about this... he's applying for a job... not just any job, but a job with a lifetime contract... This isn't some gratuitous appointment like head of FEMA or something... this is Chief Justice of the Supreme Court...

Wouldn't you be concerned about going into an interview with a company that didn't actually ask you any questions about your qualifications for the job...

From what I've read (and don't take away my Dem card for this), he's actually a pretty smart guy who should make a pretty decent judge... but I'm a pretty smart guy who would make a decent VP for a company... that being said, I wouldn't accept a job from someone or want to be employed by someone who didn't ask my future boss the kinds of questions that need well-thought out answers...

While I disagree with many of Roberts' opinions on issues, as long as he's qualified and responds as anyone would who was being interviewed, he gets the job...

May lightening now strike me down...

 

RE: Re: RE: Roberts, Reasonableness, and Society at large

I almost hope he's a right winger, the american people deserve what they get at this point.