Law, Society and Politics in Comparative Perspective

About

This course explores theoretical and historical perspectives on the intersection of law, society and politics, and aims to foster discussion of contemporary issues among students from different cultures and disciplines. Alongside an introduction to comparative law and legal culture, we read some classical social theorists (Durkheim, Weber and Marx), look at a more contemporary perspective (Bourdieu), and consider their relevance to contemporary debates about morality, (dis)obedience, conflict, and property. The course invites students to apply these analytical lenses to their own legal and political systems and share their insights in class discussion.

We will use these foundations to investigate the role and operation of law in totalitarian settings such as Nazi and Communist Germany, as well as across contemporary political regimes and societies. Excursions around Berlin will help students gain insight into ordinary citizens’ lived experience of the law during times of political turmoil and how state institutions have wrestled with the legacy of these eras.

Don’t miss out: students who register early can take advantage of the early bird discount on the program fee!

Course leader

Holly Weaver

Target group

This course is designed for all students having an interest in social sciences – in particular, history, sociology or political science – or in law. It is conceived as an undergraduate class, but the variety of students taking this course has ranged from first-year students to post-graduate students. This experiential diversity provides unique opportunities for students to learn from one another.
Students should be able to speak and read English at the upper intermediate level (B2) or higher.

Fee info