International Law and Holocaust

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

A big part of contemporary international law has a direct connection to the Holocaust. This course examines the evolution of international law from World War II on with a particular focus on genocide, and crimes against humanity. Students will learn, examine, and evaluate modern theories of international law and political science. Which theory best explains the evolution of international law? Are post WWII theories better able to redefine pre-existing ideas about human behavior in times of conflict? We will examine how the Holocaust and World War II have shaped the need for interstate peace, and how these events became major catalysts for modern international justice. We will also consider the meaning of international justice (empirical and via theoretical lenses), its execution on the international arena, and the way that this concept has evolved in the post-war period. This seminar embraces an interdisciplinary approach to teaching: we will study international law through visiting historical landmarks in Poland (Auschwitz concentration camp, Stutthof Museum and Archives, Museum of Polish Jews, the Warsaw Rising Museum, Museum of the Second World War, Westerplatte, Solidarity Museum), focusing on international law/political science theories, in-depth interviews, participants observations, documentary films, and meetings with Polish policymakers.