political science

1. In Federalist No. 78, Alexander Hamilton argued that the judiciary was the least dangerous branch of government. Many people would argue that Hamilton was incorrect and that today’s courts wield an enormous amount of power. Why did Hamilton feel as he did, and what led to the courts’ increase in power? What have been the implications of this increase in power? Do you think Hamilton would have a problem with the role the courts play today? Why or why not? (300 words)

2. How do the first 10 Amendments to the Constitution (the Bill of Rights) combine to form a blanket of protection for you? Explain what purpose the court cases we have reviewed in this class serve in further establishing your rights. How do they interact with these basic rights as described in the Constitution? This answer is not specifically covered anywhere in the reading material. You will have to think out and craft a response based on the notes and the lecture for this Module. Things to consider in your answer: “Blanket of protection from whom? What specifically does the Bill of Rights cover? What purpose might dividing them in this particular way serve? Why these things and not other things such as a right to education or basic health care as are often covered in state Consitutions... whats so special about this particular stuff? Why are these cases important in discussing the ongoing evolution of our collective understanding of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties? (400 words)