Kommentar |
The sudden and unexpected death of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia on February 13, 2016, dominated the American news for several days. The possible nomination of a successor is likely to be one of the leading topics of the presidential election year, with possible impacts on the senatorial elections as well. This seminar class is introducing students into the American Constitution, its amendments, and the interpretation of the Constitution through the Supreme Court. Adjudication of human rights is a focus of this class. |
Bemerkung |
preparatory session:
Thursday, April 7, 6-8pm (c.t.)
1st block:
Friday, May 27, 2-6pm
Saturday, May 28, 10am-4pm
Sunday, May 29, 10am-2pm
2nd block:
Friday, June 17, 2-6pm
Saturday, June 18, 10am-4pm
Sunday, June 19, 10am-2pm |
Leistungsnachweis |
For credit, students participate actively in class discussions and give an oral presentation accompanied by a handout. Grading will be based on a research paper. Students are encouraged to submit the paper in English and thereby further their command of the language. However, German papers will be accepted as well. |
Lerninhalte |
In the end of the class, students are familiar with the US Constitution. They know landmark cases of the Supreme Court that have shaped American history, constitutional debates, and our understanding of human rights. Furthermore, students comprehend the role of the Supreme Court as a political actor and policy-maker and they can critically analyze the relationship of politics and the law. Students acquire further knowledge of a specific constitutional topic independently, understand and present it in class. |