POSC 252 - Comparative Law and Courts

4 Credits

1 Units

This course is designed to familiarize students with fundamental principles and contemporary discussions regarding the role of law and the function of courts in both well-established and emerging democracies. The course is broadly divided into two main sections: (1) the study of judicial institutions and (2) an exploration of judicial decision-making behaviors. The initial portion will revolve around acquiring a foundational understanding of legal structures and court-related institutions, encompassing topics like the rule of law, legal systems, judicial review, and judicial independence. The latter segment will delve into the world of legal experts and civil society. Students will learn to scrutinize diverse models of judicial decision-making and the potential influence of non-legal factors, including demographic characteristics, reputation, and empathy, on the judicial process and its outcomes.

Credit Type Code: Letter Grade