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In this provocative and insightful book, constitutional scholar and journalist Garrett Epps reviews the key decisions of the 2013-2014 Supreme Court term through the words of the nation's nine most powerful legal authorities. Epps succinctly outlines one opinion or dissent from each of the justices during the recent term, using it to illuminate the political and ideological views that prevail on the Court. The result is a highly readable summary of the term's most controversial cases as well as a probing investigation of the issues and personalities that shape the Court's decisions.
Accompanied by a concise overview of Supreme Court procedure and brief case summaries, American Justice 2014 is an engaging and instructive read for seasoned Court-watchers as well as legal novices eager for an introduction to the least-understood branch of government. This revealing portrait of a year in legal action dramatizes the ways that the Court has come to reflect and encourage the polarization that increasingly defines American politics.
Preface: My Supreme Court, and Yours
Introduction: The Branch That Works
1. Balls and Strikes: Chief Justice John Roberts—McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission
2. Justice of Hearts: Justice Sonia Sotomayor—Dissenting, Schuette v. Coalition to Defend Affirmative Action by Any Means Necessary
3. Empathy for the Devil: Justice Antonin Scalia—Dissenting, Windsor v. United StatesRedux
4. Enter Laughing: Justice Elena Kagan—Dissenting, Town of Greece v. Galloway
5. Big Brother: Justice Anthony Kennedy—Hall v. Florida
6. In a Different Voice: Justice Clarence Thomas: Susan B. Anthony List v. Driehaus
7. Bringer of Chaos: Justice Stephen Breyer—National Labor Relations Board v. Noel Canning
8. The Alito Court: Justice Samuel Alito—Harris v. Quinn
9. No Exit: Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg—Dissenting, Burwell v. Hobby Lobby Stores
Afterword: Red and Blue Justice
Appendices
A. A Brief Guide to Supreme Court Procedure
B. Justices of the United States Supreme Court, OT 2013
C. Major OT13 Cases Discussed in This Book