In The Supreme Court, Lawrence Baum provides a brief yet comprehensive introduction to the U.S. Supreme Court, one that is balanced and illuminating. In successive chapters, the book examines each major aspect of the Court: the selection, backgrounds, and departures of justices; the creation of the Court"s agenda; the decision-making process and the factors that shape the Court"s decisions; the substance of the Court"s policies; and the Court"s impact on government and American society. With the new eleventh edition, the book gives particular attention to current developments in the Court, including the leadership of Chief Justice Roberts, the key position of Justice Kennedy as "swing" justice, and the Court"s role in shaping national policy on such issues as campaign finance and health care. In addition, it examines the impact on the Court of the growing polarization that has reshaped politics in the United States. Describing the Court"s personalities and procedures, and delving deeply to explain the actions of the Court and the behavior of justices, Baum shows students the Court"s complexity and reach. Tables and figures, plus a lively photo program, make this one of the most engaging books available. It is simply the standard.