|
GOVT-430 Law and Morality
Steven Brust
This course explores answers to fundamental questions concerning law and morality which generally fall under the broad rubric of three claims: 1. You can’t legislate morality, 2. You can’t force your morality or religion on me, 3. The law and government should be neutral with respect to moral views. In attempting to discern the truth of these statements, a number of questions must be addressed: What is the nature of law? Does/should the government legislate morality? What is meant by morality? What is the rule of law and does it relate to morality? Does one have a right to do wrong? What is a right? What is liberty and how is it related to law and morality? What is morality? How is law related to society and culture? How should the Constitution be interpreted and does morality play a role in this interpretation? Is there such a thing as an unjust law? Are all moral views religious views? We will read moral, political and legal theorists and practitioners, seeking to answer these questions both at a theoretical level and a practical level of policy and law - especially as they are addressed in a number of Supreme Court decisions concerning fundamental issues. We will explore the extent to which answers to these questions imply or depend upon a particular view of the nature of the human person, moral truth, and even ultimate views of reality. In addition, since this is a university with a Catholic and Jesuit tradition, the course will include some exploration of Catholic teaching on law, morality and politics.
Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
Course syllabi
The following syllabi may help you learn more about this course (login required):
Spring '10:
Brust, S.
(file download)
Additional syllabi may be available in prior academic years.
|
 |
More information
Look for this course in the schedule of classes.
The academic department web site for this program may provide other details about this course.
|
