Exploring the Political-Legal Dysfunction in 'Twilight of the American State'

In a time marked by political upheaval and legal complexities, Pierre Schlag's 'Twilight of the American State' emerges as a critical examination of the American political-legal system. Published free-to-read online by the University of Michigan Press in 2023, the book delves into how U.S. law and legal institutions have contributed to the current political dysfunction, offering a nuanced perspective on the interplay between liberal democratic, administered, neoliberal, and dissociative versions of the state.

Schlag, a University Distinguished Professor & Byron R. White Professor of Law at the University of Colorado, brings his extensive background in jurisprudence, constitutional law, and contemporary legal theory to bear on this pressing issue. His work is praised for its provocative thesis and its refusal to offer simplistic remedies, instead encouraging readers to engage in a broader understanding of the changes shaping America's future.

The book has garnered acclaim from notable figures in the legal community, including Mark Tushnet of Harvard Law School and Mitchel Lasser of Cornell Law School, who commend Schlag's insightful analysis and distinctive voice. 'Twilight of the American State' is part of the University of Michigan Press's 'Dialogues in Democracy' collection, aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of democracy beyond the electoral cycle.

Available for free at https://doi.org/10.3998/mpub.12393244, the book invites readers to reflect on the systemic issues plaguing American institutions and the legal profession's transformation from a profession to a business. Schlag's reflections on the upcoming election and the need for institutional self-reckoning add a timely dimension to the discussion.

The University of Michigan Press, known for its commitment to open access and the dissemination of knowledge, plays a pivotal role in making such critical scholarship available to a wide audience. 'Twilight of the American State' stands as a testament to the Press's mission, offering a free, accessible resource for those seeking to understand the complexities of America's political-legal landscape.