Jurisprudence: Theories of Law

Course aim

This course aims to foster and develop a basic appreciation of the major theoretical and philosophical approaches that have guided the law in all stages of its development, and the impact that conflicting and competing theoretical frameworks have in assisting with the resolution of novel and difficult legal problems

Course content

1. Overview and skills
    Critical reading and writing methods
    Requirements of independent learning
    The use of the online activity
    Development of reflective practice
    The inculcation of ethical and attitudinal attributes through syndicate work
    The expectations of social and relational competencies through syndicate work 

        Content overview
The course is divided into two main parts: (1) the examination of the nature of law and its relation to morality and (2) the place of law in political philosophy. Specific topics covered will include:
i. The foundations of morality
ii. The normativity of law
iii. The relationship between normativity and moralty
iv. The moral structure of law
v. The forms of justice and their connection to public and private law
vi. The history of thought about law and the way it influences contemporary understanding of law
vii. The role of law in society
viii. The relationship between law and freedom

 

Textbook(s)

Wacks R 2012, Understanding Jurisprudence. An introduction to Legal Theory, 3rd ed, Oxford University Press, Oxford

Prerequisite(s)

Nil

Corequisite(s)

Nil

Teaching method

Component	Duration
INTERNAL, CITY WEST
Lecture	3 hours x 10 weeks
Tutorial	1 hour x 10 weeks

Note: These components may or may not be scheduled in every study period. Please refer to the timetable for further details.

Assessment

Closed book multiple choice and short answer test, Essay, Examination

Fees

EFTSL*: 0.125
Commonwealth Supported program (Band 3)
To determine the fee for this course as part of a Commonwealth Supported program, go to:
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Fee-paying program for domestic and international students
International students and students undertaking this course as part of a postgraduate fee paying program must refer to the relevant program home page to determine the cost for undertaking this course.

Non-award enrolment
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Not all courses are available on all of the above bases, and students must check to ensure that they are permitted to enrol in a particular course.

* Equivalent Full Time Study Load. Please note: all EFTSL values are published and calculated at ten decimal places. Values are displayed to three decimal places for ease of interpretation.