This master's course focuses on the legal-philosophical challenges of the liberal society. In particular, it focuses on religion’s issues and take them as examples of the broader challenges linked to diversity and integration.
The course is structured around four main questions:
- Is religion a category with special value under the law, or should it be treated like other forms of ethical convictions?
- Should the state be separated from religion, and if so, in what ways?
- Should the state accommodate specific religious demands, for example in the form of legal exemptions?
- Why is religion an interesting illustration of broader debates about diversity and integration within the liberal society?
These questions lie at the heart of a rich body of legal and philosophical literature. They also represent key controversies shaping public debate.
The course addresses these issues from a legal philosophy perspective. As such, it aims to uncover the concepts and arguments used to tackle questions related to religion. Case-law from different jurisdiction will be used to exemplify legal-philosophical arguments and justification.
Active participation in the course requires preparatory readings and the study of case law, which are discussed in class. People without background in law are welcome to join the course (assuming they are ready to invest time in understanding legal methodology). The teaching method is participatory and emphasizes in-class debates. A good understanding of English is necessary for the assigned readings and the discussion.
This course will not be available via livestream.
- Dozent/in: Johan Rochel
- Dozent/in: Françoise Marie Simon