Criminal justice professor and constitutional law expert Mark Fischler does a brilliant job of deepening our understanding of the challenges facing our democracy, our legal system, and our public morality. How did the democratic process and the values it represents — equality and liberty for all — come to be teetering on the brink? Mark illuminates the fact that the Constitution is not a set-in-stone document, but eminently open to interpretation, and explains that its interpretation is a direct reflection of the worldviews of the Supreme Court justices. In fact, the whole process of democracy needs to be aligned with a certain level of development in order to deliver. Mark points out that democracy hasn’t served all of us, and urges us to explore who and in what ways it has failed, that we may work to correct its flaws and continue to uphold and expand the values foundational to democracy to include respecting and protecting the rights of all beings. Mark contrasts the moral integrity of revered public figures such as Socrates and Dr. King, who honored the rule of law despite that it went against their own self interest, with the disregard for the law so prevalent among political figures today, and points out that democracy can be subverted not only by malicious intent, but also by misplaced idealism—when people feel that supporting a charismatic leader or ideology is more important than supporting the principles of democracy. With regard to the Trump trials, the question arises, is any human above the law? Mark also shares where he finds hope—in his own university students with their openness to a deeper ethical understanding and responsibility and willingness to undertake civic action. Mark urges all of us who care about democracy to become engaged now. His wise, integral, highly informed insights about the current state of the legal system and of democracy, here and around the world, are revelatory, alarming, and inspiring in turn. Note:
This conversation was recorded on May 22, 2024, and therefore does not cover recent decisions from the Court, including the rulings around presidential immunity and the repeal of the Chevron precedent. Stay tuned for a followup discussion with Mark Fischler about these cases in the weeks to come. Topics & Timestamps: Part 1 Topics & Timestamps: Part 2 Podcast produced by Vanessa Santos Embark on a sonic journey that sponsors deep relaxation, enhanced focus, and a greater sense of being in the moment. The melodious flavors and subtle guidance of the tracks “Borealis” and “Polaris” will call you back into their comfort and mystique, again and again. Click here to learn more about Deep Transformation!