What does justice Holmes fear in narrowly applying a law?

Answer 1

Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes feared that narrowly applying a law could lead to rigidity and an inability to adapt to the complexities of real-life situations. He believed that strict interpretations might overlook the broader social context and fail to achieve true justice. This approach could result in unjust outcomes, as it might prioritize legal formalism over the underlying principles of fairness and equity. Holmes advocated for a more pragmatic approach that considers the law's purpose and the realities of human behavior.