Course Information

782 - Product Liability

Professor: Kathy Seward Northern
Credits: 3
Semester: 2008 Autumn
Second Writing? No
Seminar? No
Professional Responsibility? No

In the modern world, people accomplish both individual and collective objectives through the products of technology. Our modes of transportation, narrowly tailored medical treatment, manufacturing, entertainment, nourishment, and the control and maintenance of our individual and collective surroundings all involve the use of products that have the potential for great benefit and, on occasion, great harm. “Products liability law addresses the consequences of modern science and technology gone awry – when products, or the interactions between people and their products, fail.” David Owens. In this course we will examine the historical development of modern products liability law, the major theories of liability including manufacturing defect, design defect, and failure to warn/instruct. We will also consider the impact that product liability law has had with regard to consumer safety, patterns of litigation, and the call for tort reform. Grades will be based upon class participation, 2 short (3 to 5 page) writing assignments and a final exam.

The course materials listed above are for informational purposes only and should not be considered final. Students must check with the Registrar for a current list of closed courses.