U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer addresses democracy in America and majority rule while talking to a group of high school students visiting Harvard Law School.
Discussion Questions
- What is democracy? What are some of the roles of the citizen in the American democracy? What role does the judiciary play in the American democracy? Which Article of the Constitution addresses the judiciary?
- According to Justice Breyer, what are some of the fundamental features of an American democracy? Explain why there are limitations to these rights.
- What are some benefits of majority rule? How can majority rule be detrimental? List some examples given by Justice Breyer. What are some landmark court cases that dealt with majority rule?
Keywords
Checks and Balances, JUDICIAL, Majority Rule, Minority Protection, Rule of Law, Separation of Powers