Time Schedule:
Sophia Wilson
LSJ 320
Seattle Campus
Studies the international human rights movement in its legal and political context. Focuses on institutions which influence, enable, and constrain the international promotion of human rights. Offered: jointly with POL S 368.
Class description
This course examines the historical and theoretical foundations of human rights, the institutions that make up the international and regional human rights systems, and encourages students to consider the various factors which affect the development and/or suppression of human rights across the globe. We will focus on the emergence and development, since World War II, of an international movement dedicated to the promotion of human rights. We will study the goals of the movement and the global political context in which it operates. Special attention will be given to the legal institutions, national and international, which have influenced its evolution and character. The notion of "culture" as an indicator of human rights variance will also be considered. Students taking the course will acquire an enhanced understanding of the role by the United Nations, national governments, non-governmental organizations, international customary law, treaty law, regional courts, and international tribunals play in human rights politics. Students will also be responsible for writing a research paper on some aspect of human rights.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
Midterm exam, final exam, research paper, and participation.
Participation: 20 %; Midterm: 25 %; Final: 30 %; Research Paper: 25 %.
