Courts and the Body Politic

This book explains and assesses the expanding role courts play in modern democracies.

Kate O'Regan (Author)

9781009545792, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 14 August 2025

128 pages
22.2 x 14.8 x 1.3 cm, 0.32 kg

Over the last half century, courts have come to play increasingly important roles in democracies. That role is studied by historians, political scientists, constitutional lawyers and political theorists, but it is also important to all who are concerned about the practice and future of democracy. This book explores why it is that courts are playing this expanded role, as well as exploring two of the most distinctive features of the role of courts: their relationship with the executive arm of government and the role of courts in protecting fundamental rights. The book argues that the role played by courts in modern democracies varies across time and place and depends on a range of factors including constitutional text, constitutional history, and legal and political culture. This book draws on Justice O'Regan's experience as one of the first judges on South Africa's Constitutional Court, which was established shortly after the transition to democracy in 1994.

1. The expanding role of courts in modern constitutions
2. Courts and the executive branch
3. Courts and human rights.

Subject Areas: Law & society [LAQ]