This lecture series explores the critical role of the Supreme Court in the American constitutional system, focusing on judicial review, interpretive methods, landmark cases, and the relationship between the judiciary and political branches. It discusses the origins, scope, and limits of judicial review, as well as major debates surrounding judicial activism and reform proposals.

Takeaways

The Supreme Court's role is central to the constitutional system.

Judicial review allows courts to invalidate unconstitutional laws.

The doctrine of standing limits who can bring cases to court.

Interpretive methods include originalism, living constitutionalism, and textualism.

Landmark cases illustrate the power of judicial review.

The judiciary is an independent branch but interacts with political branches.

Judicial activism and restraint are ongoing debates in constitutional law.

Substantive due process protects rights not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution.

The politicization of judicial appointments raises concerns about legitimacy.

Reform proposals include term limits and changes to court jurisdiction.

Supreme Court, Judicial Review, Constitutional Law, Interpretive Methods, Landmark Cases, Political Branches, Judicial Activism, Judicial Restraint, Legal Reform, Constitutional Interpretation