Democracy, Politics, and the Law
Description
Note: This course is eligible for either the Perspective or International/Comparative/Transnational course requirement.
This seminar examines the connections between democracy and the law. In what way does the law shape democracy? Does the law help to sustain democratic politics, or does it undermine democracy? What role does the law play in the decline of democracy around the world? How should courts adjudicate disputes over the ground rules of democracy?
The seminar covers key topics in the law of democracy, such as money in politics, partisan gerrymandering, and the denial of voting rights. It also addresses current controversies such as the impact of social media on democracy; democratic backsliding and the rise of populism and authoritarianism; and the capacity of legal and constitutional mechanisms to foster democratic resilience. The readings, which are interdisciplinary, focus on Canada and various countries around the world.
Evaluation
The course evaluation consists of: (1) the choice of either a 4500-5000 word paper OR a final 2-hour limited open book exam consisting of short answer and longer essay-style questions (no fact pattern questions) (55%); (2) four comments (500 words each) on the readings (each worth 5% graded on a credit/no credit basis; to earn the credit, the comment must engage in critical analysis – i.e. it must analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the arguments/readings rather than simply summarizing them) (20%); and (3) class participation (25%), based on presenting the comments (15%) and engaging in class discussion (10%).
At a Glance
- Academic Year:2025-2026
- Course Session:Fall Session
- Credits:3
- Hours:2
- Grad Concentration:Legal Theory
Enrollment
- Maximum Enrollment:25
- JD Students:21
LLM/SJD/MSL/SJD U: 4