Reason in Law - Softcover

This lively and insightful book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding why judges made the decisions they did in such current cases as the the Alabama federal courthouse "Ten Commandments" case, Ashcroft v. Oregon (Oregon?s "right to die" law) and Lawrence v. Texas (constitutionality of sodomy laws). The book also examines recent legal controversies over internet music file-swapping and the targeting of "ordinary people" by record companies, internet pornography, the Pledge of Allegiance, and Victoria's Secret.

Completely updated, this engaging and lively text examines the relationship between law and politics and emphasizes the political importance of sound legal reasoning. Reason in Law examines the intersection of law and politics: legal reasoning. It teaches students how to examine judicial decisions, encouraging them to become "thoughtful judges of judging." Using cases ripped from the headlines--such as the Alabama federal courthouse "Ten Commandments" case, Ashcroft v. Oregon, and Lawrence v. Texas--authors Carter and Burke teach through illustrative examples and have assembled a gallery of fascinating cases to engage student interest. Ultimately, the text attempts to answer the question: "How can a pluralistic society be ruled legitimately?" If people of differing political allegiances can interpret the same legal text quite differently, how can the rule of law be properly applied?