The Supreme Court: Past, Present and Future

The Supreme Court of the United States was an active center of political, media, and concerned citizens in recent months. Control of Supreme Court Justices erupted when Chief Justice Sandra Day O'Connor retired from her position at the Supreme Court. The debate over who should replace her on the Supreme Court filled daily talk shows, political arenas, and dining tables. President George W. Bush has nominated John G. Roberts and the process of his confirmation is in the works.

Recently, another Supreme Court position opened as Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist died. President George W. Bush will nominate another candidate for confirmation. Therefore, the composition of the Supreme Court justices will be a topic of intense debate for many months to come. Why not become an informed citizen and improve your knowledge of the Supreme Court of the United States?

Perhaps you already listen to news talk radio in the car on the way to work. Try popping in an audio book instead. Go head to head with the news talk radio hosts when you learn more about the political system. For example, say you're interested in learning more soon to be-retired Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. Try checking out her audio title "The Majesty of the Law: Reflections of a Supreme Court justice." This title will contribute to greater understanding of this extraordinary woman.

To gain a more in-depth training on the United States Supreme Court there are a few classes that can listen to it. The Teaching Company is a great course called "History of the Supreme Court by Peter Irons. A similar title from Barnes & Noble Portable Professor series is "Shaping Justice". These courses cover some of the landmark cases in the history of our Supreme Court and allow you to hear the details of controversial decisions like abortion and free speech.

Want to watch "Meet the Press" with host Tim Russert? In April 2005 he had the opportunity to interview Chief Justices Stephen Breyer, Sandra Day O'Connor and Antonin Scalia and the audio version is available here. Listen to their thoughts and experiences as Supreme Court justices and how the interpretation of the Constitution is an integral part of their roles.

And there are a couple of Supreme Court-related podcasts you can try to listen. Check out "The Oyez Supreme Court Podcast" by Jerry Goldman. This is a bi-weekly discussion of Supreme Court cases past and present and insight into future Supreme Court cases is included. Another podcast to try is Evan Schaeffer "Legal Underground Podcast". Is not entirely devoted to the Supreme Court, but there are some episodes of great importance. These supplements are much the audio books listed earlier and to news talk radio.

Dive into the debate by understanding the Supreme Court and the Chief Justice nomination process. It is an extremely important part of our political process and now, thanks to these audio programs, it is easier to learn than ever.