American Constitutional Law

by Kommers, Donald P.; Finn, John E.; Jacobsohn, Gary Jeffrey

• ISBN13: 9780742563674
• ISBN10: 0742563677
• Edition: 3rd
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2009-07-30
• Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Pub Inc

Summary

iAmerican Constitutional Law Governmental Powers and Democracy is a unique casebook that encourages students and citizens of the Constitution to think critically about the fundamental principles and policies of the American constitutional order. The book has two prominent features that distinguish it from other books in the field an emphasis on the social, political and moral theory that provides meaning to constitutional law and interpretation; and a comparative perspective that situates the American experience within a world context that serves as an invaluable prism through which to illuminate the special features of our own constitutional order. While the focus of the book is entirely on American constitutional law, the book asks students to consider what, if anything, is unique in American constitutional life and what we share with other constitutional democracies. Each chapter is preceded by an introductory essay that highlights these major themes and also situates the cases in their proper historical and political context. For students in the liberal arts, as well as law students seeking a richer encounter with the multifaceted nature of the American constitutional experience, this book addresses all of their concerns. Volume 1 of this text focuses on governmental structures and relationships and includes a chapter on elections and political representation. This new edition offers updated and expanded treatment of key cases on gerrymandering and campaign finance, as well as expanded discussion of the Court's work federalism and the commerce clause.