Sales Tax Institute Book Club: Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Life by Jane Sherron De Hart
Here at the Sales Tax Institute, two things are constant: the necessity for diligence and the ever-changing nature of the law. In our field, these two forces intersect, as staying ahead of the shifting nuances of sales tax requires keen attention to detail. Perhaps no one understood the value of precision better than Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Our most recent book club selection, Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Life by Jane Sherron De Hart, gave us the opportunity to examine the legacy of a woman who used her appetite for knowledge and love of the law to be a change-maker. Ruth Bader Ginsburg, commonly referred to as RBG, was known for her perseverance, and it is because of her tireless commitment to equality that we have made incredible strides in the pursuit of equity.
RBG’s life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to justice. She wasn’t just a legal scholar but a transformative figure who shaped laws that uplifted millions. While it’s difficult to encapsulate her influence, our book club discussion kept coming back to three defining qualities that stood out as her unique superpowers.
The Power of Partnership
“You can disagree without being disagreeable.”
One of the most striking revelations from the book was RBG’s friendship with Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. Despite their ideological differences, they shared mutual respect and a genuine friendship. This dynamic was a compelling example of civility in discourse, proving that personal relationships need not be sacrificed because of political or legal disagreements. Their ability to engage in intellectual debates without personal animosity serves as a valuable lesson in today’s polarized climate.
As we discussed this surprising connection between two people who could have just as easily been adversaries as they were friends, we were reminded why we uphold respect and kindness as one of our core values. Whether we are working through complex tax questions or navigating tough legal interpretations, our team aims to mirror this spirit in every interaction with our colleagues and students.
While the friendship with Scalia was surprising, arguably the most influential partnership in RBG’s life was her relationship with her husband, Martin D. Ginsburg. At a time when traditional gender roles emphasized women’s place in the home, Martin, known as Marty to Ruth, broke the mold with his support of her aspirations. In fact, her “intellectual luminosity” laid the cornerstone of his affection for her. In many ways, he shared her desire to build a better future and contributed to that future through his enthusiasm for Ruth’s pursuit of a challenging career.
This kind of mutual support exemplifies devotion, another core value here at the Sales Tax Institute. Ruth and Marty were equally committed to one another’s success and to a shared purpose—progress, equity, and long-term impact. That kind of commitment is also essential in professional relationships, as we embrace opportunities for our colleagues to learn, grow, and share. Devotion can take many forms, but an often forgotten aspect of devotion is enthusiasm. Through the Sales Tax Nerd platform, we foster a community built on enthusiasm for all things sales tax. This space provides an opportunity for professionals to unabashedly discuss a shared love for the industry, seek guidance, and build connection.
The Power of Protest
“Fight for the things that you care about but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”
RBG’s dissents were often as influential as the majority opinions she opposed. A prime example is her dissent in Gonzales v. Carhart, where she took issue with the court’s acceptance of the “women protective argument,” a paternalistic notion suggesting that women needed to be shielded from certain decisions due to presumed emotional fragility.
Delivering her dissent from the bench, she made it clear that laws based on outdated gender stereotypes had no place in a society striving for equality. Her words carried weight beyond the courtroom, reinforcing the importance of challenging systemic biases. She proved that a dissenting voice, when used effectively, can shape future legal interpretations and societal values.
This willingness to challenge injustice directly reflects RBG’s integrity and her commitment to being in service to others. She never softened her message for the sake of acceptance and never lost sight of who her work aimed to help. That same sense of purpose and clarity informs our work as we help professionals navigate changing legal frameworks.
The Power of Persistence
“Women belong in all places where decisions are being made, whether it’s in the boardroom, in the courtroom, or in the classroom.”
RBG’s mother played a crucial role in shaping her outlook, instilling in her the values of independence, education, and perseverance. These lessons guided her through spaces where women were often unwelcome. She was frequently the only woman in a room full of men, facing resistance and discrimination at nearly every stage of her career. Yet, instead of succumbing to frustration, she methodically dismantled barriers to ensure future generations would have opportunities she was denied.
That mindset of learning, adapting, and pushing forward is a reflection of Ruth’s curiosity & growth. RBG remained a student of the law throughout her life, always seeking better arguments and deeper understanding. That same approach keeps our team sharp and effective in a complex and evolving field.
Beyond her legal work, RBG also appreciated the arts and nature. Her love for the opera and museum visits became a bonding experience with her daughter and a reminder that personal passions can live alongside professional responsibilities. Her physical training routine, which she maintained well into her eighties, helped her stay energized and focused.
Her commitment to strengthening her mind and body while finding time to prioritize her passions reminds us of the importance of well-being. RBG understood that personal care supported her work and longevity. We take inspiration from that as we prioritize wellness alongside productivity and learning.
Change Happens One Step at a Time
One of RBG’s most admirable qualities was her determination. She approached her goals with precision and did not let obstacles deter her from her ambitions. Her ability to balance multiple roles as a wife, mother, and legal pioneer was incredibly inspiring. Rather than seeing these roles as competing, she treated them as different but equally essential parts of a meaningful life.
The book reinforced a sobering truth: while much has changed, many battles for equality remain. History may feel distant, but the work of justice continues in new forms. RBG’s dissents remind us that progress often requires repetition. The same arguments must sometimes be made repeatedly, with care and conviction.
Her words offer guidance: “Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time.” Progress may be slow, but it builds over time. And just as she never stopped pushing forward, neither should we.
Join the Conversation!
Our next book club pick, The 4 Disciplines of Execution: Achieving Your Wildly Important Goals by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, Jim Huling, Scott Thele, and Beverly Walker continues, the conversation about what it takes to be a leader. We hope you’ll read along with us, and, as always, we recommend buying from a local independent bookstore if you can. Consider stopping by your favorite neighborhood shop to pick up a copy!