Kennedy’s memoir blends personal stories, weak method
Former Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy published his memoir this month, defending major rulings through a method he calls judicial introspection. Kennedy argues that judges reach correct decisions by studying law thoroughly and reflecting on their personal identity rather than by following strict constitutional interpretation.
Kennedy was the last Supreme Court justice to be unanimously confirmed, after President Gerald Ford appointed him to the federal appeals court. He authored opinions on abortion rights, campaign finance, and same-sex marriage. The book recounts his friendship with Justice Antonin Scalia despite opposing judicial philosophies.
Kennedy taught at McGeorge School of Law before and after joining the high court. He devoted substantial space in his memoir to classroom experiences using Socratic teaching methods.
