Anthropology of Law

Catalog description

This course focuses on the application of anthropological theory to understanding of how law works in social context, and on analyzing interrelationships between legal solutions and contemporary social problems. Anthropological materials will include materials from other cultural contexts and jurisdictions, as well as from the United States. The course will also include materials from a variety of substantive areas, including but not limited to health law, criminal law, business associations, environmental law, civil procedure, and property. This course will serve students interested in international and comparative law; health law; urban issues; law and society; and the interdisciplinary study of law. One overarching theme of the course will be the nature of power and interrelationships between language, power, and law.