Philosophy of Law

Catalog description

An examination and evaluation of some basic practices and principles of Anglo-American law. The course will focus on such problems as: the nature and extent of legal liability, strict liability statutes, "Good Samaritan" laws, the law of criminal attempts, the enforcement of community moral standards, the obligation to obey the law, the justification of punishment and capital punishment, civil obedience, and affirmative action and reverse discrimination. We will examine prominent legal cases and their underlying principles, but the emphasis will be on the philosophical analysis and evaluation of the law in these areas. Readings will be drawn from both classical and contemporary sources. Course may be repeated for credit when topics vary.