The Supreme Court

By Lawrence Baum

Book Overview

In The Supreme Court, Lawrence Baum provides a brief yet comprehensive introduction to the U.S. Supreme Court, one that is balanced and illuminating. In successive chapters, the book examines each major aspect of the Court: the selection, backgrounds, and departures of justices; the creation of the Court′s agenda; the decision-making process and the factors that shape the Court′s decisions; the substance of the Court′s policies; and the Court′s impact on government and American society.

With the new eleventh edition, the book gives particular attention to current developments in the Court, including the leadership of Chief Justice Roberts, the key position of Justice Kennedy as "swing" justice, and the Court′s role in shaping national policy on such issues as campaign finance and health care. In addition, it examines the impact on the Court of the growing polarization that has reshaped politics in the United States.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1452220964
• ISBN13: 9781452220963
• Release Date: September 2012
• Publisher: CQ Press
• Length: 272 Pages
• Weight: 0.86 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.3" x 0.5" x 6.3"

Customer Reviews

Great Systematic Study of the Supreme Court

Of the three branches of government, it is the Supreme Court that remains a mystery to most Americans. As the author points out, most Americans are unable to name a significant number of sitting Justices, let alone understand the many nuances of the US judicial system. However, in The Supreme Court, Dr. Baum attempts to clarify the structures and processes of the Court, as well as explain its effect on the formation of public policy. Dr. Baum separates the book in to sections, each addressing the major components of the Court: the Justices, the selection of cases, the decision making process, the policy outputs, and lastly, the impact of the Court on the other branches of government and society as a whole. Aside from discussing the mechanics of the Court, Baum delves into its broader impact on both the executive and legislative branch, the creation of public policy, and the shaping of America. In conclusion, Baum's book is an excellent work covering the many aspects of the Supreme Court, written in a clear and interesting manner.

Summary of American judicial history, power, and mechanics.

Excellent work, suitable for classroom use. Covers the history and development of America's highest court, as well as providing insight into judicial procedure and justice voting behavior. Also gives valuable information on the use of justiciabilty as method for agenda tailoring.