PSCI303

Examines the structure and functioning of the United States Supreme Court theories about judicial decision making, and legal and political debates on civil rights. Following the discussions on judicial review, federalism and separation of powers, students may look historically at the U.S. Supreme Court's interpretation of the equal protection clause in relation to race, gender, culture, and immigration among other issues. Discussion should focus not only on landmark cases in constitutional law but also on the ways in which other legal actors, such as lawyers and interest groups, play a role in determining the nature and outcome of cases. Students will have the opportunity to look throughout the relationship between law and politics as well as at the socio-cultural context in which judicial decisions are made.