Course Description
The substantive constitutional law of rights and liberties, with emphasis on political freedom of speech and press, religious freedom, freedom from discrimination, and protection of due process in criminal justice.
Athena Title
CONST LAW II:RIGHTS
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in POLS 6460
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
This course is an advanced seminar on the theory and practice of American constitutional interpretation with a focus on civil rights and civil liberties. The course focuses on case law. Legal theory and social science research are also studied in an effort to explain the voting behavior of the Court and illustrate debates about theories of legal interpretation and judicial decision-making. After completing the course, students will be better prepared to read and analyze Supreme Court decisions, isolate the factors that influence why judges vote the way they do, and understand their impact on the policymaking process.
Topical Outline
I. Introduction and Judicial Power A. Interpreting Legal Texts and “The Jurisprudence of Original Intent” B. Judicial Review II. The “Incorporation” of the Bill of Rights III. Economic Substantive Due Process IV. The Right of Privacy: Substantive Due Process Revisited? V. Freedom of Speech VI. Freedom of the Press VII. Freedom of Religion VIII. Equal Protection of the Laws
Syllabus