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In Search of the Constitution Season 1 Episodes

  • 1987-1987
  • 1 Season
  • PBS
  • Documentary
  • Watchlist
    Where to Watch

In American history, no document has sparked as much reverence, discussion, and controversy as the Constitution. But how does it really affect our everyday lives? How do ordinary citizens, legal scholars, and Supreme Court justices interpret it? Join Bill Moyers for this 11-part series, originally produced to mark the Constitution's bicentennial, that delves into the fascinating history and contemporary relevance of the ultimate law of the land. In-depth interviews with a wide range of experts--including four Supreme Court justices, educator Mortimer Adler, legal philosopher Ronald Dworkin, and Judge Robert Bork--provide not only rich historical detail, but also illuminating insights on current disputes. Throughout, In Search of the Constitution shows how this brief text has shaped our nation and holds the power to change our lives.

Season 1 Episode Guide

Season 1

11 Episodes 1987 - 1987

Episode 1

In the Beginning

Thu, Apr 16, 198758 mins

Historians Forrest McDonald, Michael Kammen, and Olive Taylor go behind the Constitutional Convention's closed doors to reveal the framers' values and assumptions.

Where to Watch

Episode 2

Mr. Justice Blackmun

Tue, Feb 24, 198759 mins

Associate Justice Harold A. Blackmun discusses the Constitution's relevance to every American's daily life in issues ranging from baseball to abortion.

Where to Watch

Episode 3

Mortimer Adler: Teaching the Constitution

Tue, Feb 24, 198758 mins

Engaging in a Socratic dialogue with students at St. John's College in Annapolis, philosopher and educator Mortimer Adler offers insights in "America's testament."

Where to Watch

Episode 4

Mr. Justice Brennan

Tue, Feb 24, 198758 mins

Associate Justice William J. Brennan explains how the Supreme Court wrangles with abstract concepts such as dignity, privacy, and cruel and unusual punishment.

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Episode 5

Ronald Dworkin: The Changing Story

Tue, Feb 24, 198758 mins

According to scholar Ronald Dworkin, the Constitution shapes the public debate over issues such as AIDS prevention, pornography, and racial discrimination.

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Episode 6

God and the Constitution

Tue, Feb 24, 198758 mins

Religious historians Martin E. Marty and Leonard Levy offer their views on the meaning and impact of the establishment clause.

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Episode 7

Strictly Speaking

Tue, Feb 24, 198758 mins

Attorney General Edwin Meese and federal judge Robert Bork--both outspoken strict constructionists--discuss judicial restraint and original intent.

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Episode 8

Justice Sandra Day O'Connor

Tue, Feb 24, 198758 mins

In her first televised interview, the first female Supreme Court justice tells of her journey from a cattle ranch to the High Court and what makes a case challenging.

Where to Watch

Episode 9

We the People

Tue, Feb 24, 198758 mins

Ordinary citizens reveal the rewards--and personal perils--of defending their rights to privacy, freedom of conscience, and church-state separation before the Supreme Court.

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Episode 10

1987 vs. the Constitution

Tue, Feb 24, 198758 mins

In interviews with experts and ordinary citizens, Bill Moyers explores the constitutional implications of workplace drug-testing, computer privacy, and executive power.

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Episode 11

Justice Lewis Powell, Jr.

Tue, Feb 24, 198759 mins

Associate Justice Lewis Powell, Jr. discusses the principles involved in some of his most controversial cases, including those dealing with executive privilege, corporal punishment, and affirmative action.

Where to Watch