When the US Supreme Court announces a decision, reporters simplify and dramatize the complex legal issues by highlighting dissenting opinions and thus emphasizing conflict among the justices. This often sensationalistic coverage fosters public controversy over specific rulings. In The Limits of Legitimacy, Michael A. Zilis illuminates this link between case law and public opinion.
When the US Supreme Court announces a decision, reporters simplify and dramatize the complex legal issues by highlighting dissenting opinions and thus...