Meaning: The quote "We are not final because we are infallible, but we are infallible only because we are final" is attributed to Robert H. Jackson, an American lawyer and judge who served as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court. This thought-provoking statement touches on the concept of authority and finality in decision-making, emphasizing that being infallible is not the reason for being final, but rather being final is what makes one infallible.

This quote can be interpreted in various contexts, including legal, political, and philosophical. In the legal realm, it speaks to the notion of judicial authority and the importance of finality in legal decisions. In a political context, it may allude to the authority of government and the need for decisive and conclusive actions. From a philosophical standpoint, it raises questions about the nature of certainty and the human tendency to attribute infallibility to those in positions of final authority.

In the realm of law, the quote can be understood as a reflection of the principle of judicial finality. Finality in legal decisions refers to the conclusive nature of judgments and the limited avenues for challenging or overturning them. While judges and legal authorities are not immune to error, the finality of their decisions is crucial for upholding the rule of law and maintaining the stability of the legal system. The quote suggests that the infallibility attributed to final decisions is a consequence of their definitive and authoritative nature, rather than an inherent characteristic of those making the decisions.

From a political perspective, the quote may be seen as a commentary on the nature of governance and the exercise of state power. Political leaders and governing bodies often make decisions that have far-reaching implications for their constituents and the broader society. The concept of being "final" in this context relates to the ultimate authority wielded by those in power, and the infallibility associated with such authority is a product of its decisiveness and irrevocability. The quote implies that the infallibility of final decisions is a result of their authoritative and conclusive nature, rather than an indication of inherent perfection or immunity from error.

Philosophically, the quote raises questions about the nature of certainty and the human inclination to attribute infallibility to figures of final authority. It delves into the psychological and societal dynamics that lead individuals to place unwavering trust in the decisions of those in positions of ultimate power. The quote suggests that the perception of infallibility is not derived from an intrinsic lack of error, but rather from the unquestionable and definitive nature of the final decision-making process.

In conclusion, Robert H. Jackson's quote "We are not final because we are infallible, but we are infallible only because we are final" encapsulates a thought-provoking perspective on the relationship between authority, finality, and infallibility. Whether applied to the legal, political, or philosophical realm, the quote challenges us to critically examine the nature of authority and the reasons behind the attribution of infallibility to final decisions and those in positions of ultimate power.