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, the institutions and processes for their enforcement and the elements of international criminal law. The focus is on global (essentially United Nations) activity. 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 11 December 2009 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 and Capstone papers, though A and Capstone paper candidates must submit an outline by the end of September and a draft by Thanksgiving.

Meets A and B or Capstone Writing Requirement.