Final answer:
Lifetime tenure for Supreme Court justices allows unbiased, long-term decisions but may resist societal change and lacks accountability. It protects against political pressure but may embed partisan ideology longer than desired.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lifetime tenure for Supreme Court justices has advantages and disadvantages. One major advantage is that it allows justices to make decisions free from the pressure of public opinion, political retaliation, or the need to cater to the interests of those who could control their reappointment. They can focus on the long-term health and legitimacy of the court and the law. This tenure is strategic, designed to protect the institution's strength and stability far beyond temporary political climates and presidential terms.
However, a significant disadvantage includes potential resistance to changing societal values, as justices' lifelong positions might not reflect the evolution of public sentiments and needs. Moreover, the lengthy tenure can lead to a lack of accountability, making it difficult to address situations where a justice may no longer be adequately performing due to health issues or changes in behavior. The framing of controversial appointments such as those in recent years has highlighted the intensely partisan nature that can embroil the confirmation process.