Political Science 797Z - ST-Power,Institutions,AmConst

In this course, we will explore the American constitutional system as prescribed by the United States Constitution, and as developed by the myriad subsequent decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court throughout this nation's history. Broadly, we will focus on the areas of institutional powers, federalism, and government involvement in commerce, regulation, and taxation. Across these areas, students will learn about the legal, social, historical, and political contexts in which the Supreme Court reaches its decisions. With active and lively debates in these areas to the present day, students who complete this course are expected to be able to think critically about the broad contours of government power, the role of the Supreme Court in defining and re-defining those contours, and the importance of institutional design and relationships.