"Judges rule on the basis of law, not public opinion, and they should be totally indifferent to pressures of the times"

Warren E. Burger's quote, "Judges rule on the basis of law, not public opinion, and they should be absolutely indifferent to pressures of the times", stresses the fundamental concept of judicial independence and the rule of law within a constitutional democracy. The quote shows the concept that judges must analyze and apply the law impartially, devoid of external influences such as societal pressure, political currents, or popular belief.

Judicial independence is a foundation of the judiciary's role in preserving checks and balances within the government. By focusing on the law above public opinion, judges preserve the stability of the legal system, guaranteeing that justice is administered fairly and equitably. This detachment from popular belief makes sure that every specific receives the same legal factor to consider, safeguarding minority rights and keeping the concept that everyone is equivalent before the law. It highlights the idea that justice must not be swayed by majority rule or the eagerness of the masses, which can sometimes be transient or misdirected.

Moreover, Burger's assertion that judges must be "absolutely indifferent to pressures of the times" recommends that the judiciary has an obligation to go beyond the instant context. This concept assists protect judges from short-term social and political trends that might interfere with objective legal thinking. The "pressures of the times" can typically show fleeting cultural, financial, or political motions that may not stand the test of time or align with enduring legal concepts.

However, it is likewise essential to recognize that while the law ought to be analyzed by itself benefits, legal systems are not fixed. They evolve through legal changes, social advancements, and judicial interpretation, which can reflect shifts in societal values gradually. Therefore, while judges should stay unbiased and focused on the law as Burger describes, they also engage with the law's capability to adjust substantially and thoughtfully with time, reflecting a balance in between steadfast adherence to legal fundamentals and versatility to altering societal landscapes.