TOPICS IN LEGAL STUDIES AND THE SOCIAL SCIENCES

LAW/LEGALST/SOC 641

Theory and research on the social origins, processes and effects of law; examination of law-related behavior, legal institutions, law and social structure, and law and social change; linkage to contemporary theoretical and political debates.

LEGALST 407

Examines fundamental questions about the nature and content of law, addressing both analytic and normative jurisprudence. Questions in analytic jurisprudence include: What does it mean for something to be the law? Why are some things a matter of law, while others are not? What is the relationship between law and morality? Is the law exhausted by the meaning of words in constitutions and statutes? Questions of normative jurisprudence concern the proper content of law, such as, what should the law permit, prohibit, and promote? These questions are examined by looking at a number of topics that are at issue in U.S. (and other nations') laws. These will include interpreting criminal law statutes, policies promoting public welfare, and the justifications for property, especially intellectual property rights.

LEGALST 409

Introduction to the theory, the politics and the sociology of human rights. Main themes: international human rights legal regime, questions of why human rights have become "legalized," and what the consequences of this legalization are on the ground.

LEGALST 450

Addresses a variety of issues linking various humanities perspectives to the central themes of law and legal institutions.

LEGALST 600

Special seminars are designed for opportunities such as short international seminar courses, the summer forum, and other special opportunities.