Last Monday's
New York Times reported on comments made by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas at a dinner sponsored by the Bill of Rights Institute honoring winners of a high school essay contest. Answering questions submitted in advance in writing by students, at one point Thomas said:
how can you not reminisce about a childhood where you began each day with the Pledge of Allegiance as little kids lined up in the schoolyard and then marched in two by two with a flag and a crucifix in each classroom?
Asked how his religious faith influences his work on the court, he responded:
I think that it really gives content to the oath that you took. You say, "So help me God."... There are some cases that will drive you to your knees.... In those moments you ask for strength and wisdom to have the right answer and the courage to stand up for it. Beyond that, it would be illegitimate, I think, and a violation of my oath to incorporate my religious beliefs into the decision-making process.
[Thanks to Scott Mange for the lead.]
