THE AMERICAN CONSTITUTION: RIGHTS AND CIVIL LIBERTIES

LAW 731

An introduction to the constitutional law of the United States covering the basic structure of government in the United States, with emphasis on the federal government. Includes the role of the federal courts and the doctrine of judicial review; the rise of federal power, as reflected particularly in shifting definitions of "interstate commerce," the doctrine of separation of powers, with emphasis on current issues of legislative and executive branch authority; and judicial and other limitations on the exercise of authority by the states as well as selected rights protected in the Amendments to the Constitution.

POLISCI 411

This course undertakes an historical examination of the development of American constitutional thinking about powers and structures of government from the founding era to the present day. Issue that are considered include separation of powers, executive war powers, the powers of Congress, judicial review and the role of courts, and federalism. The course focuses on the development of constitutional law, constitutional politics, and American political development.

LAW 740

Focuses on rights of citizens against state and federal governments, the nature of due process and equal protection of the law, to include discussions around the right to privacy,  freedoms of expression, association, religion, the right bear arms, and protection of civil rights and freedom from invidious discrimination.  What is the content of these rights? What methods should judges use to figure out the answer? What role does or should the judiciary have in enforcing those rights?

POLISCI 470

An examination of the basic principles, purposes, and assumptions of First Amendment cases and literature, with attention to both historical and contemporary controversies.

POLISCI 937

Exploration of themes in legal and/or constitutional theory.