International Human Rights Seminar

Description:

Limit: 20 students

This seminar aims to analyze contemporary international human rights: their historical and philosophical bases, their substantive content, and the institutions and processes for their enforcement. The focus is on global (essentially United Nations) activity, though experiences in the European and Inter-American systems are also considered. The course emphasizes the legal dimension of human rights rather than the moral or political aspects. Of particular concern will be the tension between human rights on the one hand and the threats posed by international terrorism and armed conflict on the other.

Evaluation is based on a research paper of B paper length and quality. This paper is to be submitted by 12 December 2008 on a topic in international human rights of each student's choice, subject to approval. It is expected that each student's class presentation will be on the topic of this paper. This seminar is also available for A papers, though A paper candidates must submit an outline by the end of September and a draft by Thanksgiving.

Meets A and B Writing Requirement.