Question

Do you think it is a good idea that supreme court justices are appointed for life? Explain your answer

Answer 1

Part of the debate over rights in the 18th century involved the prerogative of kings to remove and appoint judges upon their ascension to the throne. Liberal thinkers believed that lifetime appointments would scale back the power of the king, and therefore represented social progress. If a judge was sure of his seat, he could vote according to his own judgment, despite the wishes of the king. The Whigs in Britain actually won this right, though whether it really served their cause or their government is anyone's guess.