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8815 - Law and Social Science
Professor: Tanya J. Poteet
Semester: 2013 Spring
Second Writing Requirement? Yes
Seminar? No
Professional Responsibility? No
Prerequisites: None
Means of Assessment: papers and presentation
Course Description
This course introduces students to the use of social science evidence by legal practitioners and courts at all levels. Such evidence is used, for example, in cases involving issues of trademark infringement, obscenity, discrimination, identification of criminal offenders, potential jury prejudice, eyewitness reliability, sexual assault, self-defense, dangerousness, and the fashioning of remedies. Despite its now common use, scientific evidence poses fundamental issues and recurring challenges for the law. In this course, we will examine the methodology of social science research and various uses and challenges of using such research in the law.
This course provides a foundation for law students to become sophisticated consumers and critics of social science evidence, equipping them to recognize issues raised by the use of social science in the law, and providing a foundation in empirical analysis that complements doctrinal analysis in law.
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.
