Politics of the Supreme Court (331-0-20)
Instructors
Caroline High Pippert
Meeting Info
555 Clark 230: Tues, Thurs 3:30PM - 4:50PM
Overview of class
This course will focus on the institution of the U.S. Supreme Court and its place within the American political system. We will begin the course with a discussion of the powers of the Supreme Court as an institution including the development of its power over time and its role in the policymaking process. We will then focus on the operations of the Supreme Court including justice selection and confirmation, judicial philosophies, agenda setting through case selection, and oral arguments. Finally, we will turn to the Supreme Court's influence on contemporary policy issues as well as its relationship to public opinion and ideas for reform. Readings in this course will include a mix of textbook chapters, academic articles, and news media that will focus on both foundational knowledge about the Supreme Court and analysis of its role in the U.S. political system.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course students will be able to:
- Assess the role of the Supreme Court in the U.S. political system and its place in the separation of powers.
- Understand the process and politics of how Justices are selected and confirmed.
- Explain the process of agenda setting through case selection.
- Apply course concepts to contemporary debates about the power of the Supreme Court and its influence on policy.
Evaluation Method
Short paper, Midterm exam, Final Project + Presentation, Participation
Class Materials (Required)
All materials available through Canvas