2012-13 Catalog

An introduction to Anglo-American law from both the legal and the social- scientific points of view. Subject can vary from year to year. Available for introductory social science credit.

This course will examine the interrelationships between the concepts of causation, moral responsibility, and legal liability. It will consider legal doctrines of causation and responsibility, as well as attempts within philosophy to articulate these concepts. Questions to be addressed include: Can you be morally or legally responsible for harms that you do not cause? Is it worse to cause some harm, than to unsuccessfully attempt it? Is it justified to punish those who cause harm more severely than those who attempt harm? When, if ever, can the ends justify the means? What constitutes negligence? Is it worse to cause some harm, than to allow it to happen (when you could have prevented it)?

A sophisticated introduction to and exploration of the intersection of science and the law, focusing on the intellectual property system and the various means by which the conduct and products of scientific research are regulated. The course will analyze and compare American, international, and theoretical alternative systems, in part by means of economics modeling. The latter portion of the course will explore particular scientific areas in depth (examples include the human genome project; the Internet and cyberspace; the law of the sea; and outer-space exploration). Some background in law and economics helpful. Graded written work includes two problem sets, a midterm and a final using essay and short answer formats.

An introduction to the role of tax in society. This course provides an overview of the U.S. tax system and the historical and political factors that influenced its development. This course will examine several key legal concepts that shape the federal income tax system as well as issues related to democracy and taxation, tax and inequality, tax and economic growth, and tax and globalization. It will also look at current tax reform proposals. Each student will be expected to complete three essays during the quarter. Not offered 2012-13

The development of the Supreme Court, its doctrines, personalities, and role in U.S. history through analyses of selected cases. The first half of the course, which is a prerequisite for the second half but may also be taken by itself, will deal with such topics as federalism, economic regulation, political rights, and free speech. The second half will cover such issues as the rights of the accused, equal protection, and privacy.