Where the Train Left the Tracks

The train of limited government, that is.

This book is a superb collection of essays on the twelve worst Supreme Court cases (and numerous dishonorable mentions) which, in the authors' opinions, did much of the work in destroying freedom in this country.

From the Amazon listing:

***
...The Dirty Dozen takes on twelve Supreme Court cases that changed American history—and yet are not well known to most Americans.

Starting in the New Deal era, the Court has allowed breathtaking expansions of government power that significantly reduced individual rights and abandoned limited federal government as envisioned by the founders.

For example:
• Helvering v. Davis (1937) allowed the government to take money from some and give it to others, without any meaningful constraints
• Wickard v. Filburn (1942) let Congress use the interstate commerce clause to regulate even the most trivial activities—neither interstate nor commerce
• Kelo v. City of New London (2005) declared that the government can seize private property and transfer it to another private owner

Levy and Mellor untangle complex Court opinions to explain how The Dirty Dozen harmed ordinary Americans. They argue for a Supreme Court that will enforce what the Constitution actually says about civil liberties, property rights, racial preferences, gun ownership, and many other controversial issues.
***

I purchased it tonight, and already, I can tell it's a keeper. Clearly written enough for non-lawyers and lawyers alike, it will both educate you and enrage you.

Highly recommended, especially in light of the probable electoral results in less than six months.

Tempus fugit.