This work is intended as a study book for readers without prior knowledge of public law. It addresses the fundamental decisions in constitutional law that have given birth to the republic, democracy, the federal state, the welfare state, and the rule of law ( Rechtsstaat ). The discussion concludes with a presentation of fundamental rights while focusing on general legal doctrine in this area.

Ulrich Battis, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin; Christoph Gusy, Universität Bielefeld.