Comparative Law (L. May*li)

This course is an introduction to the comparative analysis of different legal cultures and traditions, and their mutual influences in times of a so-called globalization. After a brief survey of the methodologies and ideologies of the various comparative studies of legal institutions and norms, we will study and compare the civil and common law traditions as well as mixed legal traditions including religious and socialist conceptions of law. We will focus, on the one hand, on topics such as, legal transplants, conflict between tradition and modernity, customary law and religious norms, and, on the other hand, codification and law making process, constitutionalism, private and public law.

A section of the class will be dedicated to the comparison of the legal experiences of Latin American states, post-colonial African states and Western European countries. This comparative examination will focus on the circumstances and process leading to the advent and development of the current legal systems.

Students are required to write one paper (20 pages). The course may be used to fulfill the writing requirement. No Prerequisites. This course is also a first year elective.

Exam Notes: P