PHIL 3402 - D1 Philosophy of Law ; POLI 2491 - D1 Topics: Philosophy of Law

Abstract

This course will critically explore fundamental questions about: • the duty to obey law • the nature of law, and in particular the relationship between law and morality • constitutional interpretation (a hot and vital topic today!) • the scope of law, especially criminal law • particular legal practices and concepts such as paternalism, punishment, and responsibility Course objectives: It is anticipated that you will • Familiarize yourself with the various sides of each topic above and the arguments for and against each position. • Enhance your ability to construct arguments of your own, both critical and constructive. • Enhance your ability to communicate clearly, systematically, and critically about topics in the philosophy of law. • Understand the nature and structure of court decisions and dissents, especially those of the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS), and discern how important judicial opinions may sometimes be rooted in philosophies of law and of legal interpretation. • Apply your understanding of issues in the philosophy of law to concrete social problems