CONSTITUTIONAL LAW: INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS, ADVANCED (CON527) (2)

Professor Nadine Strossen

In-depth examination of an array of constitutional law issues, focusing on the individual rights topics introduced in Constitutional Law II, as well as others, ranging from the First Amendment religion clauses, to the Second Amendment "right to bear arms," to rights in the criminal justice system and in the context of the "War on Terrorism."  The precise issues and cases studied will be determined each semester, depending on current constitutional developments and the interests of the students in the course. Class discussion centers on unresolved issues that are, or soon will be, on the Supreme Court‘s current docket. Through the prism of these new cases, examines established constitutional principles and precedents (which will be included in the assigned readings). Each student will be required to participate (as part of a small team of students) in planning and leading the class discussion during at least two class sessions, including by writing individual and group outlines of proposed questions to guide the class discussion. These class-related written and oral assignments, together with participation in discussions that are led by other students, will provide the basis for half the course grade. The other half is based on either a paper or an exam, at the option of each student. Enrollment is limited. No prerequisite, but Constitutional Law I (REQ200) and Constitutional Law II (REQ250) are recommended.