The Constitution of the United States: A Primer for the People

by Currie, David P.

• ISBN13: 9780226131047
• ISBN10: 0226131041
• Edition: 2nd
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2000-02-01
• Publisher: Univ of Chicago Pr

Summary

A masterly introduction to the United States Constitution, this slim book leads the reader through a concise overview of the document's individual articles and amendments. With clear and accessible language, Currie then examines each of the three branches of the federal government and explains the relation between the federal and state governments. He analyzes those constitutional provisions that are designed to protect citizens from governmental interference, such as the due process and equal protection clauses and the confusing first amendment provisions respecting the separation of church and state, and includes discussions of judicial review and freedom of speech and of the press. A sympathetic yet critical guide, Currie's book enables students and laypersons to understand one of the cornerstones of the Western political tradition. The second edition, along with an updated chronology and bibliography, incorporates the Supreme Court decisions over the past decade that have affected constitutional interpretation. "Superb . . . highly recommended for those seeking a reliable, understandable, and useful introduction to our constitution."--Appellate Practice Journal and Update

Author Biography

David P. Currie is the Edward H. Levi Distinguished Service Professor of Law at the University of Chicago Law School.

Table of Contents

Preface	vii
Introduction	1	(14)
Congress	2	(2)
The President	4	(4)
The Courts	8	(2)
The Bill of Rights	10	(2)
Later Amendments	12	(3)
Judicial Review	15	(11)
Origin and Justification	15	(4)
Scope and Limitations	19	(7)
Federalism	26	(10)
Federal Powers	26	(5)
The Commerce Clause and State Authority	31	(2)
Intergovernmental Immunities	33	(3)
The Separation of Powers	36	(11)
The Rule of Law	36	(4)
Military Powers	40	(2)
Independent Agencies	42	(5)
Due Process of Law	47	(12)
Procedural Requirements	47	(3)
Substantive Due Process	50	(5)
Alternative Theories	55	(4)
Equality	59	(15)
Racial Discrimination and Segregation	59	(2)
Affirmative Action and De Facto Discrimination	61	(3)
Nonracial Classifications	64	(3)
State Action	67	(3)
The Right to Vote	70	(4)
Freedom of Speech and of the Press	74	(9)
Content Regulation	76	(4)
Time, Place, and Manner Regulations	80	(3)
Church and State	83	(8)
The Free Exercise of Religion	83	(3)
Establishment of Religion	86	(5)
Conclusion	91	(4)
Appendix A: Chronology	95	(7)
Appendix B: The Constitution of the United States	102	(25)
Notes	127	(21)
Bibliography	148	(3)
Index	151