THIS HONORABLE COURT

by Leo Pfeffer ‧ RELEASE DATE: April 20, 1965

The function of the Supreme Court is perhaps the least understood and most heavily criticized aspect of our governmental system. The quick calls for impeachment and curtailment of the Court's authority which greet some of its decisions are clear evidence of this. Yet the decisions of the Justices can impress upon the work of the other two branches of goverment the stamp which indicates that their activity is in conformity with the basic tenets of our constitution. To fully comprehend the Court's function, an historical perspective is required; Leo Pfeffer's study provides an excellent one. He shows the interaction of the Court as an institution upon the men who serve upon it, their conceptions of its function upon it and our law. He subjects the justices to critical analysis and though he may take down a Marshall he also places in proper perspective the reputations of such maligned justices as Taney and Taft. Mr. Pfeffer has written this from the layman's view and consequently is less clear on some specific points than he might be. His capacity for anecdote helps to move along a concise history by an author with developed critical skills and an appreciation of the Court's position.

Pub Date: April 20, 1965

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Beacon

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 1, 1965

Categories: NONFICTION