The US Supreme Court is arguably the most controversial institution in the American political system. Decisions on such 'hot-button' issues as abortion, race equality, the death penalty and gay marriage have sharply divided the Court, politicians and public opinion. Some say that the Justices are merely politicians in judicial robes, while others insist that the Court simply does its best to interpret the Constitution for a society that differs drastically from the late eighteenth century when it was written. All those studying or simply interested in American politics must therefore get to grips with the nature, power and role of the Supreme Court in American politics. This book provides a comprehensive and balanced account, written and organised in an accessible style. It assumes no prior knowledge of the Court or constitutional law, and will help readers to gain a full appreciation of this much-criticised and important institution. -- .

"Politics USA "is a lively and authoritative introduction to American politics, giving students a rich and varied resource for all aspects of their course. The book provides expert and comprehensive analysis of US politics and government, including in-depth coverage of the presidency, the Congress, the Supreme Court and American foreign policy.

This third edition of Politics USA has been thoroughly updated to include analysis of

• Challenges and policies of the first Obama administration
• Recent results and developments in US elections
• Latest major decisions of the US Supreme Court
• Contemporary American Foreign Policy

This is an ideal introduction for students of US politics as well as anyone seeking to understand any or all aspects of politics in one of the world s most powerful and globally influential countries. "

The United States Supreme Court can be a perplexing institution. Yet as the third co-equal branch of national government, its contribution to American politics needs to be appreciated as much as those of Congress and the presidency. This lucidly-written text is aimed at students and teachers of American politics who have little or no previous knowledge of the Court. McKeever explains the legal and judicial frameworks within which the Supreme Court works and emphasises the political forces which surround and influence it. He examines the ways in which the presidency, Congress and interest groups bring pressure upon the judicial decision-making process and the extent to which the Justices are able to rise above the political fray. This includes a chapter devoted to the 'new' politics of Supreme Court appointments, and an analysis the Court's contemporary agenda, including issues such as abortion, affirmative action and gay rights. Finally, McKeever discusses the roles played by the Supreme Court in American politics and government and the extent to which these vary in rhythm with the broader political system. -- .

The US Supreme Court is arguably the most controversial institution in the American political system. Decisions on such 'hot-button' issues as abortion, race equality, the death penalty and gay marriage have sharply divided the Court, politicians and public opinion. Some say that the Justices are merely politicians in judicial robes, while others insist that the Court simply does its best to interpret the Constitution for a society that differs drastically from the late eighteenth century when it was written. All those studying or simply interested in American politics must therefore get to grips with the nature, power and role of the Supreme Court in American politics. This book provides a comprehensive and balanced account, written and organised in an accessible style. It assumes no prior knowledge of the Court or constitutional law, and will help readers to gain a full appreciation of this much-criticised and important institution. -- .