CHFA | Political Science and Sociology Panel
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Political Science and Pre-legal Studies
Minor
N/A
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Paul Foote
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation - Murray State Access only
Abstract/Description
The paper and presentation examine the formative life experiences and judicial legacy of Justice William J. Brennan Jr., a prominent justice on the Supreme Court who is well-recognized for his liberal activism and unshakable commitment to protecting and preserving the rights of individuals. By looking into Justice Brennan’s background as an Irish immigrant, devout Catholic, military vet, and educated student, the paper and presentation argues that these experiences and teachings shaped Brennan’s liberal activist philosophy. The research here works to analyze pivotal con law decisions, such as in the cases of Sherbert v. Verner, Wisconsin v. Yoder, Plyler v. Doe, and Frontiero v. Richardson. These cases illustrate how Brennan’s history inspired his stark defense of the Free Exercise Clause, Equal Protection, and Due Process. The findings here demonstrate the true nature of how crucial Brennan was in the progressive rulings this country saw emerge from the Warren Court.
Spring Scholars Week 2025
Political Science and Sociology Department Panel
The Evolution of an Irish-Immigrant-Catholic Son
The paper and presentation examine the formative life experiences and judicial legacy of Justice William J. Brennan Jr., a prominent justice on the Supreme Court who is well-recognized for his liberal activism and unshakable commitment to protecting and preserving the rights of individuals. By looking into Justice Brennan’s background as an Irish immigrant, devout Catholic, military vet, and educated student, the paper and presentation argues that these experiences and teachings shaped Brennan’s liberal activist philosophy. The research here works to analyze pivotal con law decisions, such as in the cases of Sherbert v. Verner, Wisconsin v. Yoder, Plyler v. Doe, and Frontiero v. Richardson. These cases illustrate how Brennan’s history inspired his stark defense of the Free Exercise Clause, Equal Protection, and Due Process. The findings here demonstrate the true nature of how crucial Brennan was in the progressive rulings this country saw emerge from the Warren Court.
