“The machinery chugs on unabated, belching out its dehumanizing product. It is distressing. But I refuse to despair. I know, one day, the Supreme Court will outlaw the death penalty. Permanently.”

— William J. Brennan

Writing in Reason and Passion: Justice Brennan's Enduring Influence (1997).

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William J. Brennan 12

American judge 1906–1997

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“The machinery chugs on unabated, belching out its dehumanizing product. It is distressing. But I refuse to despair. I know, one day, the Supreme Court will outlaw the death penalty. Permanently.”

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William J. Brennan 12

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