1. Based on the text and lectures, why do federal judges have a lifetime appointment? Is this a good idea? What are the advantages and disadvantages of this arrangement?
2. Based on the lectures and text, do you think the federal courts, including the Supreme Court, are far too powerful or far too weak in nature? Explain.
3. Since freedom of religion is guaranteed in the Constitution, does that give my church the right to engage in animal sacrifices as part of its religious services? Or, alternatively, should Suzy be required to salute the American flag in her school if it violates her religion? In both cases, what judicial concept comes into consideration?
4. Explain how the 14th Amendment relates to the process of selective incorporation.
5. The U.S. has several different kinds of diplomatic tools to influence the behavior of other nations. Which one do you think is the most effective and why?
6. At the Federal level, which courts are courts of original jurisdiction and which courts are courts of appellate jurisdiction?
7. What kinds of Constitutional powers does the Congress have over the Supreme Court and the Federal Judiciary?
8. Describe the arguments for and against judicial activism.
9. Based on your understanding of how judges are selected, do you think that judges should be insulated from the political process or should they be part of that process? Explain.
10. Why might the Supreme Court NOT be a good mechanism for shaping matters of public policy? In other words, what are some key limitations that constrain what the Supreme Court can do?
11. Explain how the Missouri Plan works. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this Plan?
12. How is the Missouri Court System structured? How does it differ from the way the U.S. system is structured?