The United States Supreme Court

After watching the two-part video on the history and workings of the U.S. Supreme Court, I believe that I gained a deeper understanding of the Court’s role in American democracy. Although I had a general idea of the Court’s function, the video provided a comprehensive look at its origins, evolution throughout the years, and the principles that guide its decision-making.

I learned a lot about the inner workings of the Supreme Court, especially the process by which cases are selected for review. Before watching the video, I wasn’t fully aware of how many cases the Court receives each year and how few it actually agrees to hear. (Ex: Utah Fed. Land Control)

The Courts & The Public

An important concept that most Americans don’t grasp is the immense power the Supreme Court holds in interpreting the Constitution and shaping national policy. The Court doesn’t just settle legal disputes but also defines the scope of rights and freedoms for Americans. This power has huge implications, as decisions made by the Court can have lasting effects on law, society, and even the direction of the country.

The most surprising thing to learn is the role of public opinion in influencing the Court’s decisions, despite the Court being designed as an independent body. The video mentioned that even though justices are not elected, they are still influenced by the political climate and public sentiment. 

Even if the Court does not make decisions based on the public opinion of the American people, it’s clear that its legitimacy relies on public trust, which oftentimes shift with landmark rulings. This makes me think about how the balance of power between branches of government plays out and how the Court has to navigate this dynamic while staying true to the Constitution.

The Supreme Court is beyond an institution that interprets laws, it plays a significant role in shaping societal values and political discourse. I now have a greater appreciation for the complexity of its decisions and the influence those decisions have, both legally and culturally. The Court is not just a referee  of law but a key player in the ongoing evolution of American democracy.

Five Sources of News and Information

News and information have become so saturated that it can often feel overwhelming to navigate the volume of content available. Questions like “What is credible?” and “What makes this reliable?” are ones you must constantly ask yourself. As a consumer, I approach everything with a degree of skepticism, especially when it comes from the media. 

Not every piece of information should be accepted at face value; it’s essential to critically analyze the source, consider their motives, and identify any biases. Developing this habit ensures that you’re not just passively consuming information but actively engaging with it to form well-informed opinions.

As a busy student, I rely on the most accessible news sources available to me while I’m on the move. Platforms like Fox News, TikTok, Instagram, CNN, and local news stations provide a mix of perspectives; liberal and conservative, global and local. 

Social media allows me to quickly catch up on trending topics, while traditional news producers give me more in-depth and reliable coverage. This combination helps me stay informed from various angles, quick updates with more comprehensive analysis.

TikTok

While it might not be a traditional news source, TikTok has become an important platform for staying updated on real-time events as they are occurring. I follow creators who specialize in breaking down news, politics, and social justice issues. This often provides me with a unique perspective, because the algorithm used provides consumers with different perspective to different news stories in the span of minutes. 

I believe that there’s a lot of value on how quickly information spreads on TikTok, though I always cross-check with other sources to ensure accuracy. It’s a great way to stay connected.

          

CNN

CNN is one of my top choices for news coverage, particularly for staying updated on national breaking news or major global events. As an Independent, I value their political commentary as a way to engage with diverse perspectives and compare it to more conservative news sources, which I believe is essential for critical thinking. 

I also appreciate CNN’s live coverage during significant events, as it provides real-time updates and analysis that help me stay informed as stories unfold.

Fox News

Fox News is a valuable source for gaining information from a more conservative viewpoint, which I find important for understanding different perspectives. I appreciate the opportunity to explore how political issues are framed differently. By comparing Fox News to other more liberal outlets, I can gain a more well-rounded understanding of current events and political discourse.

Instagram

   Like TikTok, Instagram is not a traditional news outlet, but it’s a valuable source for staying informed. I believe that many news organizations, nonprofits, and journalists post updates and quick summaries directly on Instagram, making it easy to consume throughout a busy day. It’s also a great way to see how communities and individuals respond to current events instantly.

Local News Stations

Local news stations are an essential part of my daily routine because they keep me informed about events in my immediate community. This includes updates on weather, traffic, or local government, they provide coverage that national outlets often neglect. Local news stations like WXII 12 and WGHP Fox 8 are reliable sources for staying in the loop on local events and regional stories that directly impact my area.