Present Dissents: Causes of the Justices' Disagreements

This concludes Mr. Palmer's discussions of dissents and reversals of the Supreme Court. Beginning in the July, 1948, issue of the Journal, Mr. Palmer stated the number and extent of current dissents as compared with earlier records. Subsequently he examined the causes and effects of those dissents. This month at the request of the editors, he summarizes his findings and conclusions. He states twenty-six basic causes for the "present fragmentation of the Court", and suggests how those causes may be removed. It is not to be expected that everyone will agree with all the opinions of Mr. Palmer, but readers generally will be greateful for his extensive presentation. His work should create an improved attitude toward the problem, and produce a clearer perception of the place and purpose of the judicial process in our Government.