The Use of Force in International and Domestic Law

Catalog description

This course introduces students to constraints on the use of force in international and U.S. domestic law. International law topics include: (1) a brief introduction to international law and legal theory; (2) the United Nations Charter and limits on the use of force between states; (3) the difference between armed conflict and law enforcement matters; (4) rules regulating the conduct of fighters during an armed conflict; (5) human rights law, and; (6) the law of the sea. Domestic law topics include: (1) the general relationship between international law and the U.S. legal system; (2) the allocation of authority to use and limit the use of force under the U.S. Constitution; (3) domestic law regulating the conduct of armed hostilities, and; (4) domestic statutes regulating the use of the armed forces for domestic law enforcement and other emergencies. The final grade is determined by a take-home final exam, class preparation and participation, and contributions to in-class group work.