- Discuss whether judicial decisions are based on a) facts, laws, and precedent (the legal subculture); b) public opinion, politics, localism (democratic subculture); or c) both. Provide specific examples and cite any sources used.
- Discuss whether the four theories or approaches (cue, small-group analysis, attitude, and rational choice) for analyzing judicial decisions are equally useful. Provide specific examples and cite any sources used.
- Explain whether judicial decisions should reflect public opinion, using a specific example, and cite any sources used.
- Describe the impact of judicial decisions on law, precedent, and social policy. Provide specific examples and cite any sources used.
Sources and Formatting
- Use at least three sources to support your writing. Your textbook may be used as one reference source and can be used more than once in your responses. Cite each reference in-text citations and include your resources on the Sources page.