Meaning: The quote "Who is to say that 5 men 10 years ago were right whereas 5 men looking the other direction today are wrong" is a thought-provoking statement made by Harry Blackmun, a distinguished Judge. This quote challenges the notion of absolute truth and highlights the subjectivity of perspectives across different times and contexts.

In essence, the quote questions the concept of absolute truth and emphasizes the relativity of truth based on different perspectives. It challenges the idea that a particular viewpoint or decision made in the past is inherently correct, especially when compared to a different viewpoint or decision in the present. By posing this question, Blackmun encourages critical thinking and reflection on the nature of truth and the influence of time and context on perceptions of right and wrong.

Harry Blackmun, the author of this quote, was an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court. He served on the Court from 1970 to 1994 and was known for his influential role in several landmark cases, including the famous Roe v. Wade decision regarding abortion rights. Blackmun's legal career and judicial philosophy were marked by a commitment to individual rights and a deep understanding of the complexities of legal and ethical issues.

The quote can be interpreted in various contexts, including legal, philosophical, and ethical perspectives. In a legal context, it raises important questions about the nature of judicial decisions and the evolving interpretations of the law over time. It underscores the idea that legal interpretations and decisions are not static but may evolve based on changing societal norms, values, and perspectives.

From a philosophical standpoint, the quote challenges the absoluteness of truth and morality. It suggests that what may have been considered right or wrong in the past may not necessarily hold true in the present, highlighting the dynamic and evolving nature of ethical and moral considerations.

Furthermore, the quote has broader implications beyond the realms of law and philosophy, extending to the realm of cultural and societal evolution. It acknowledges that societal norms, values, and perceptions are subject to change over time, and what was deemed acceptable or unacceptable in the past may be viewed differently in contemporary society.

This quote also resonates with the concept of historical relativism, which posits that historical events and interpretations are subject to the perspectives and biases of those interpreting them. It emphasizes the importance of considering multiple viewpoints and historical contexts when evaluating the "rightness" or "wrongness" of past actions or decisions.

In conclusion, Harry Blackmun's quote challenges the notion of absolute truth and emphasizes the relativity of perspectives across different times and contexts. It encourages critical thinking about the evolving nature of truth, morality, and legal interpretations. By posing the question of whether the judgments of the past are inherently right and those of the present inherently wrong, Blackmun prompts reflection on the dynamic nature of truth and the influence of time and context on perceptions of right and wrong.