Dancing on the Brink of the Abyss: Supreme Court Decisions and the American People

Introduction

In "Dancing on the Brink of the Abyss," William N. Eskridge Jr. offers a provocative and insightful look at the Supreme Court's most controversial decisions and their impact on American society. Eskridge argues that the Court has often been at the forefront of social change, but that its decisions have also sparked fierce backlash and division.

The Supreme Court and Social Change

Eskridge begins by examining the Court's role in shaping American society. He argues that the Court has played a crucial role in advancing civil rights, women's rights, and other progressive causes. For example, the Court's decision in Brown v. Board of Education (1954) outlawed segregation in public schools, and its decision in Roe v. Wade (1973) legalized abortion.

However, Eskridge also acknowledges that the Court's decisions have sometimes been controversial and divisive. For example, the Court's decision in Bush v. Gore (2000) effectively decided the outcome of the 2000 presidential election, and its decision in Obergefell v. Hodges (2015) legalized same-sex marriage. These decisions sparked fierce backlash from conservatives, who accused the Court of overstepping its authority.

The Backlash against the Supreme Court

Eskridge argues that the backlash against the Supreme Court is a natural consequence of the Court's role in social change. When the Court makes decisions that challenge traditional values or the status quo, it is bound to generate controversy. This is especially true in a polarized political climate, where both sides are quick to accuse the Court of bias.

Eskridge also argues that the backlash against the Supreme Court is fueled by a misunderstanding of the Court's role. Many people believe that the Court is supposed to be a neutral arbiter of the law, but Eskridge argues that the Court is inevitably political. The justices are appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate, and they bring their own political views to the bench.

The Future of the Supreme Court

Eskridge concludes by speculating on the future of the Supreme Court. He argues that the Court is likely to continue to be a source of controversy and division. However, he also believes that the Court is essential to American democracy. The Court provides a check on the power of the other branches of government, and it helps to protect the rights of minorities and the powerless.

Why You Should Read This Book

"Dancing on the Brink of the Abyss" is a must-read for anyone interested in the Supreme Court and its role in American society. Eskridge offers a balanced and insightful perspective on the Court's most controversial decisions, and he provides a nuanced understanding of the backlash against the Court. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the current state of American democracy.

Conclusion

"Dancing on the Brink of the Abyss" is a provocative and insightful look at the Supreme Court and its role in American society. Eskridge argues that the Court has often been at the forefront of social change, but that its decisions have also sparked fierce backlash and division. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in the Supreme Court and its role in American democracy.