Fall 2007

SOC 396N • Introduction to Law and Society

Course Description

Through this course, I want to provide you with a sample of the types of research agendas that fall under the banner, "Law and Society Research." Following an introductory session, the content of this course is divided into three general domains. The first considers the ways in which law is part of culture and is therefore reflected in differences in legal attitudes, legal systems, and understandings of the purpose of law. The second unit examines research on various legal actors and institutions (police, judges, juries, attorneys, and courts). Finally, we ask questions about what factors contribute to legal change, as well as what role, if any, law and social science scholarship plays in effecting change.

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