Law, Politics, and Society : An Introduction to American Law

by Samuels,Suzanne

• ISBN13: 9780618376513
• ISBN10: 0618376518
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2005-09-16
• Publisher: Cengage Learning

Summary

This text studies the inextricable links between law, society, and politics through an in-depth examination of the institutions for law-making in the United States, focusing on the function, structure, and participants in the process. The institutions-oriented approach focuses on contemporary coverage of the interrelationship between law and society, and includes discussion of controversial topics, such as the influence of race, class, sex, and corporate governance on the law. Law, Politics, and Society also looks at the theoretical and philosophical foundations of American law and provides comparative and international perspectives. Diversity is embedded into each chapter within the readings--drawn from a broad range of interdisciplinary sources such as sociology, history, and medicine--as well as in activities, which encourage discussion about law and race, national origin, sex, and class. In addition, excellent coverage of how the law has changed since September 11, 2001 helps students understand these complex relationships in a tangible way. Popular Culture features use a series of photographs to help students understand how law both informs and is informed by popular culture. Law in Action features apply the concepts of each chapter to an actual law in order to illustrate the central point and to help students better understand theoretical concepts. Pedagogy throughout the text includes active learning exercises, and marginal and bold definitions.

Table of Contents

Note: Each chapter includes a Summary, Suggested Reading, and Active Learning

The Origins and Context of American Law

An Introduction to American Law: Defining ""Law"" Norms as Social Controls

Laws Distinguished from Norms Law

In Action: The Federal Law Against

Terrorism and Weapons of Mass Destruction

Types of Law in the United States

Debate: Can Capital Punishment

Be An Effective Deterrent?

Controversial Laws Other Actors

Standing in the Place of Government

The Law in Popular Culture:Stra

Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.