PSC 308 - PII United States Constitutional History

(Perspectives II course) The constitution and its interpretation have played a central role in American history and politics. In the first half of the semester we situate constitutional development in the context of this nation’s political history, then focus on the institution of judicial review and controversies surrounding constitutional interpretation. In the second half of the course, we study two broad areas of constitutional law: the first dealing with the fundamentals of American political structure and economic regulation and the second stemming from the ongoing struggle to expand and protect civil rights and civil liberties. The course utilizes a combination of lecture, class discussion, and student presentations. Students are encouraged to read beyond the assigned materials and follow cases which are currently before the Supreme Court.

Prerequisites & Notes
Adv Codes: BR Prereq: any PI in History & Social Science Cross-listed with HIS*308

Credits: 3