The Supreme Court, Pt. III

The Rules of Courtship: Myths and Misconceptions

Lecture by Larry Sabato
16 min

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• Quicktime – 51 MB
  
• Windows Media Video – 41 MB
• Audio mp3 – 11 MB

Summary:
This perhaps least understood branch of government is both naively revered as insulated from politics and above public opinion, yet also maligned for having unchecked power and being too interventionist. While these characteristics are true to a degree, in reality the court is neither apolitical nor all-powerful, but operates effectively and within the bounds of its Constitutional role.

Click here to answer essay questions about the podcast.

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Larry Sabato is the founder and direction of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia, a professor of politics, and a nationally renowned elections scholar.

 

Click here to email Professor Sabato.

 

The Supreme Court, Pt. II

“No More Souters:” Every Seat Matters

Lecture by Larry Sabato
14 min

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• Quicktime – 28 MB
  
• Windows Media Video – 33 MB
• Audio mp3 – 9 MB

Summary:
With no term limits for Supreme Court Justices, some presidents end up putting many justices on the court, while others are never afforded an opportunity. As evidenced by so many confirmation battles, ideological shifts, and 5-4 decisions, every seat is important.

Click here to answer essay questions about the podcast.

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Larry Sabato is the founder and direction of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia, a professor of politics, and a nationally renowned elections scholar.

 

Click here to email Professor Sabato.

 

The Supreme Court, Pt. I

Better Know a Supreme Court Justice

Lecture by Larry Sabato
20 min

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• Quicktime – 64 MB
  
• Windows Media Video – 33 MB
• Audio mp3 – 9 MB

Summary:
Nine individuals who are appointed, not elected, to life-time positions comprise the highest judicial body in the United States and head the third branch of the federal government. Appointed by the president and confirmed by Congress, the Supreme Court Justices are responsible for many landmark decisions that help shape the course of the country.

Click here to answer essay questions about the podcast.

—

Larry Sabato is the founder and direction of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia, a professor of politics, and a nationally renowned elections scholar.

 

Click here to email Professor Sabato.