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Special Topics in Political Science (390-0-33)

Topic

Feminist Legal Theory

Instructors

Deborah Tuerkheimer
312/503-4864
LM 301

Meeting Info

Parkes Hall 223: Mon, Wed 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

COURSE TITLE: Feminist Legal Theory

This course explores a range of feminist legal theories as applied to areas of law and policy where gender is particularly salient. Throughout the quarter, we will consider how the law regulates our relationships and bodies while constructing norms around gender and sexuality. Topics include domestic violence, sexual violence, sex work, reproductive justice, marriage and other forms of intimate relationships, child rearing, education, sex-based harassment, poverty, and wage labor.

Learning Objectives


  • gain substantive knowledge of the laws and policies that regulate gender and sexuality

  • improve ability to construct an argument grounded in feminist legal theory

  • develop an understanding of how laws surrounding gender impact vulnerable and marginalized populations

  • hone skills in critical analysis, writing, and oral communication

Teaching Method

seminar

Evaluation Method

class participation (20%)
paper #1 (~5 pages) (20%)
paper #2 (~5 pages) (20%)
final paper (~10 pages) (40%)

Class Materials (Required)

Gender Law and Policy, Katharine T. Bartlett, Deborah L. Rhode, Joanna L. Grossman, Deborah L. Brake, and Frank Rudy Cooper; Aspen (4th edition, 2023); ISBN 979-8886142198

Textbook available for rent or purchase electronically and on library reserve in print.

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Pre-registration -- Reserved for Political Science students until the end of preregistration, after which time enrollment will be open to everyone who has taken the prerequisites.