This course provides a comparative survey of influential contemporary constitutions including those of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and South Africa. Following an introduction to comparative methodology and the functions of comparative law, especially in the legislative and judicial spheres, the class focuses on a shortlist of specific topics. These include the legislative process, bicameralism, the separation of powers, electoral systems, federalism, judicial review, and the protection of human rights. The concept of transnational constitutionalism, the potential and pitfalls of constitutional legal transplants, and the drafting of new constitutions in post-conflict societies such as Iraq, Tunisia or Kenya will also be considered. Students are invited to engage with foreign approaches to these issues through the lens of US case law and constitutional doctrine. The course will be based on a study pack of selected legal materials from the systems under review. Knowledge of foreign languages is not required. (2 Credits)
Spring 2018
Jörg Fedtke
Constitutional Law & Civil Rights
International & Comparative Law