

Akhil Reed Amar
Constitutional law professor at Yale and author of 'The Words That Made Us: America’s Constitutional Conversation, 1760–1840'. Host of the podcast Amarica's Constitution and contributor to The Atlantic.
Top 5 podcasts with Akhil Reed Amar
Ranked by the Snipd community

141 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 33min
The Words That Made America
Akhil Reed Amar, a Yale constitutional law professor and author, discusses America's 250th birthday with a focus on national pride and achievements. He highlights the contrasts between current sentiments and historical milestones, including the Declaration of Independence penned by Jefferson. The conversation dives into the lives of key figures like Adams and Washington, exploring their contributions amidst the backdrop of slavery's contradictions. Amar emphasizes the rich history of American ideals, the evolution of constitutional narratives, and the enduring significance of free speech.

14 snips
Nov 7, 2024 • 47min
The Electoral College (Throwback)
Akhil Reed Amar, a Yale Law professor and author, and Carol Anderson, an expert in African American Studies at Emory, explore the Electoral College's origins and significance. They dive into its historical roots, revealing how compromises over slavery influenced its creation. The discussion highlights the Electoral College's role in balancing state power and the ongoing debates surrounding its impact on democracy. Listeners gain insights into the complexities of electoral representation and the challenges of reforming a deeply entrenched system.

11 snips
May 11, 2022 • 1h 13min
The Yale Law Professor Who Is Anti-Roe, But Pro-Choice
Akhil Reed Amar, Yale's Sterling Professor of Law and a prolific author cited in over 40 Supreme Court cases, dives into the complexities of Roe v. Wade. He discusses why his liberal views align with Alito's draft opinion to overturn Roe. Amar probes the implications for abortion rights in America and the heightened need for political engagement from pro-choice advocates. He also offers insights into the cultural dynamics of the Supreme Court, especially in light of recent leaks, and emphasizes the necessity for legal reform over judicial rulings.

8 snips
Sep 27, 2023 • 42min
Utah and the Constitution: A New National Narrative | Akhil Reed Amar | September 2023
Akhil Reed Amar, a Yale University professor, discusses the birth of the U.S. Constitution, challenging common misconceptions and emphasizing the role of national security and geography. He explores the framing of California's Constitution, the compromises of 1850, and the absence of major gold or silver veins in New Mexico. Additionally, he discusses missed opportunities in ending slavery worldwide and the need to understand our national story.

Aug 4, 2025 • 34min
America’s Constitution with Akhil Reed Amar - Part 1
In this engaging discussion, Akhil Reed Amar, a Yale constitutional law professor and first-generation American, emphasizes the U.S. Constitution's role in uniting diverse citizens. He reflects on his journey to understanding citizenship and the importance of constitutional knowledge as foundational for democracy. Amar dives into the complexities of amendments, advocates for consensus in today's polarized climate, and discusses the contemporary debate on term limits, highlighting the necessity of personal relationships in fostering bipartisan cooperation.