Supreme Court Cases Period 1 Fall 2015

By: Carlie Sellers
Regents of the University of California v. Bakke (1978)
Background Information
1978- Allan Blakke, a 35 year old white male, applied for admission to the University of California Medical School twice and
was rejected both times. The school reserved 16 places in each entering class for “qualified minorities.” Bakke’s GPA and test
scores exceeded those of any minority students admitted in the two years he was rejected.
Constitutional Issue(s)
Bakke believed he was excluded from admission solely on the basis of race. He believed this decision violated the 14th
Amendment.
Supreme Court Decision (Majority Opinion)
There was a 5-4 majority opinion. Racial and ethnic classifications of any sort are inherently suspect but he must be admitted.
But, the decision upheld affirmative action allowing race to be one of several factors in college admission policy.
Precedent
Minimize the white opposition to the goal of equality while extending gains for
racial minorities through affirmative action.
Concurring Opinion(s)
White, Marshall, Brennan and Blackmun all agreed that it was a good idea to
permit the University to consider race of an applicant in making decisions
regarding admissions. They also agreed to uphold affirmative action in order
to achieve equal opportunity for all citizens of the United States.
Dissenting Opinion(s)
White, Marshall, Brennan and Blackmun all also has some disagreements with the decision. They believed the decision to
allow race to be considered in the admission process at universities violated the civil rights act and showed discrimination
towards certain groups of people.
Sources Cited (MLA)
"Regents of the Univ. of Cal. v. Bakke." LII / Legal Information Institute. Web. 6 Dec. 2015.
Quick Links
www.oyez.org/cases/
www.justia.com/cases/
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