Civil Rights and Liberties: Provocative Questions and Evolving Answers

This text examines contemporary and perennial constitutional issues in civil liberties and rights by posing questions designed to engage students in an exploration of how and why US Supreme Court Justices have interpreted the provisions of the US Constitution. Each question is followed by an essay answer that explores, in a thought-provoking manner, the variety of ways these issues have been responded to in real cases.

This book examines contemporary and perennial constitutional issues in civil liberties and rights by posing questions designed to engage readers in an exploration of how and why U.S. Supreme Court Justices have interpreted the provisions of the U.S. Constitution relating to Freedom of Expression and Religion, and Equal Protection and Privacy. Each question is followed by an essay “answer” that explores, in a thought-provoking manner, the variety of ways these issues have been responded to in real cases. Chapter titles include: In Defense of Liberty; The First Amendment and Freedom of Expression; Freedom of Religion; Equality Under the Constitution; Privacy and Reproductive Freedom; Contemporary Issue of Equality and Freedom; and What is the Future of Constitutional Rights and Liberties in America? For Americans interested in the changing circumstances shaping our future, and the U.S. Supreme Court's reaction to them.