Should a Justice Be a Knight?

We now learn that Justice Scalia died at retreat for a secret, all-male hunting society that dates back to 1695. The International Order of St. Hubertus—pictured here— admits only men. The photo suggests it admits only white men. Once they are members, they are knighted. Justice Scalia had a right to join this group. The question is: Was Scalia so far removed from the mainstream of American experience that he was ill-suited to rule on discrimination cases, where he frequently ruled to reject or narrow discrimination theories for people who would never be able to join his secret society? Justice Clarence Thomas, by comparison, enjoys country western music. He is considered the most likable Justice by people who work at the Supreme Court, and makes a point to know everyone’s names, including janitors and cafeteria workers. In her younger days, Justice Ginsburg was a cheerleader, editor of her high school paper, and a cello player in the orchestra. Justice Kagan is a book worm. Justice Sotomayor—who has had Type 1 diabetes since she was 8— used her 50^th birthday as an occasion to learn salsa dance. Justice Alito is known for his love of baseball, specifically the Philadelphia Phillies. Justice Kennedy loves to travel abroad. In his all-boys high school, Chief Justice Roberts played Peppermint Patty in “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”; and he worked in a steel mill to save for college. Justice Breyer loves to ride a bike, and has serious injuries to show for his passion. Justice Scalia, by comparison to his colleagues, was a very odd duck.