Includes bibliographical references and index.

The nature of constitutions : basic questions about their interpretation -- Multiple interpretive criteria -- Original understanding : what is relevant and how much does it count? -- Employing multiple standards -- Neutral principles or "objective" standards : their relevance and attainability -- Cruel and unusual punishment -- Federal separation of powers -- Federal powers -- Freedom of speech and the press -- The religion clauses -- Criminal process : the right to counsel, unreasonable searches and seizures, and the privilege against self-incrimination -- Equal protection -- Conclusion.