American Constitutional Law

Introductory Essays and Selected Cases

Donald Grier Stephenson Jr author Alpheus Thomas Mason author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd

Published:29th Sep '21

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

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American Constitutional Law cover

This comprehensive collection features background essays and Supreme Court case excerpts, enhancing understanding of constitutional law. The latest edition includes discussions on recent Supreme Court transitions and new case analyses.

American Constitutional Law is a comprehensive resource that combines in-depth essays with carefully selected excerpts from Supreme Court cases. This edition aims to provide readers with a thorough understanding of constitutional law and the pivotal role the Supreme Court plays in shaping and interpreting it. Grounded in both theoretical frameworks and political context, the book seeks to enhance students' grasp of this essential aspect of the American political landscape.

The 18th edition introduces several significant updates, including an analysis of the Trump impeachments and an exploration of the recent transitions within the Supreme Court. This includes detailed discussions on the contentious Kavanaugh hearings, the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and the nomination process for Justice Amy Coney Barrett. These contemporary events are crucial for understanding the current dynamics of the Supreme Court and its impact on constitutional law.

Additionally, the book features fourteen newly edited cases, such as Chifalo v. Washington (2020), which addresses issues related to the Electoral College, and Masterpiece Cakeshop (2018), which focuses on gay rights. Moreover, thirty-one new cases are discussed in the chapter essays, enriching the content and providing a broader perspective on recent legal developments. Overall, American Constitutional Law serves as a vital tool for students and anyone interested in the complexities of constitutional interpretation in the United States.

Praise for American Constitutional Law: Introductory Essays and Selected Cases, 18th Edition

"In its 18th edition, Mason and Stephenson’s American Constitutional Law does not disappoint. It continues the authors’ tradition of publishing a well-edited, lucidly written, accessible text for undergraduate audiences that is ideal for a single-semester course. The case selection is complete and up-to-date and the authors’ introductory essays are crisp and comprehensive. I’ve used Mason and Stephenson throughout my teaching career and I look forward to using the new edition."

--Mark Rush, Washington and Lee University

"Mason and Stephenson’s American Constitutional Law remains the leader among single-volume undergraduate constitutional law casebooks. The new edition has been updated to cover cases through the most recent Supreme Court term; examine the changes in the Court’s composition and the less-than-statesmanlike confirmation battles that preceded those changes; consider the early jurisprudential results of Donald Trump’s three appointees—Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett; and explore the effects of a global pandemic, a presidential impeachment, and an incredibly contentious 2020 presidential election on the work of the Court. The cases are masterfully edited, and meticulously written introductory essays place them in their proper context. The engaging part of a course on constitutional law comes from the professor, not the textbook. But Mason and Stephenson certainly make the job easier."

--Richard A. Glenn, Millersville University

Praise for Previous Editions

"Mason and Stephenson’s American Constitutional Law continues to be the gold standard. The book introduction immediately intrigues the reader and offers a rich historical background. The cases are thoughtfully selected, introduced with clear and engaging explanations."

--Robert J. Bresler, Pennsylvania State University

"In American Constitutional Law, Mason and Stephenson provide an illuminating look into the institutional tensions inherent in the constitution. This single-volume introduction to Constitutional Law covers both the structure of government as well as the people's rights and liberties. By integrating the latest in Supreme Court politics and electoral politics, this text provides students with the latest perspectives on constitutional developments."

Kati Mohammad-Zadeh, University of Minnesota


Praise for American Constitutional Law: Introductory Essays and Selected Cases, 18th Edition

"In its 18th edition, Mason and Stephenson’s American Constitutional Law does not disappoint. It continues the authors’ tradition of publishing a well-edited, lucidly written, accessible text for undergraduate audiences that is ideal for a single-semester course. The case selection is complete and up-to-date and the authors’ introductory essays are crisp and comprehensive. I’ve used Mason and Stephenson throughout my teaching career and I look forward to using the new edition."

Mark Rush, Washington and Lee University

"Mason and Stephenson’s American Constitutional Law remains the leader among single-volume undergraduate constitutional law casebooks. The new edition has been updated to cover cases through the most recent Supreme Court term; examine the changes in the Court’s composition and the less-than-statesmanlike confirmation battles that preceded those changes; consider the early jurisprudential results of Donald Trump’s three appointees—Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett; and explore the effects of a global pandemic, a presidential impeachment, and an incredibly contentious 2020 presidential election on the work of the Court. The cases are masterfully edited, and meticulously written introductory essays place them in their proper context. The engaging part of a course on constitutional law comes from the professor, not the textbook. But Mason and Stephenson certainly make the job easier."

Richard A. Glenn, Millersville University

Praise for Previous Editions

"Mason and Stephenson’s American Constitutional Law continues to be the gold standard. The book introduction immediately intrigues the reader and offers a rich historical background. The cases are thoughtfully selected, introduced with clear and engaging explanations."

Robert J. Bresler, Pennsylvania State University

"In American Constitutional Law, Mason and Stephenson provide an illuminating look into the institutional tensions inherent in the constitution. This single-volume introduction to Constitutional Law covers both the structure of government as well as the people's rights and liberties. By integrating the latest in Supreme Court politics and electoral politics, this text provides students with the latest perspectives on constitutional developments."

Kati Mohammad-Zadeh, University of Minnesota

ISBN: 9780367758639

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 3320g

806 pages

18th edition