POLS 220 Introduction to Law • 5 Cr.
Examines comparatively the social, political, behavioral, philosophical, and intercultural dimensions of law and the legal and political aspects of justice, constitutionalism and rights. Explores legal reasoning and how law operates within the broader societal context. Students critically interpret and evaluate legal information.
After completing this class, students should be able to:
- Critically assess the creation, interpretation, and enforcement of the law in different social contexts;
- Articulate normative standards of justice that are both internal and external to the rule of law itself;
- Evaluate and compare legal institutions and actors in different economic, political, and social contexts, both domestic and international;
- Describe how social struggles and conflicts can be resolved through the law;
- Perform basic legal reasoning;
- Explain how the law protects and facilitates voluntary arrangements in a capitalist society.