Public Law Theory Seminar

3 units

Drop deadline: 11:59 p.m. on the day after the first class meeting. This course will examine scholarship on theoretical issues in public law fields, with a primary focus on constitutional law. Readings will be a mix of (1) overviews of traditional big-picture debates and (2) recent books or articles at the frontiers of public law scholarship. Potential topics include the separation of powers, justifications for constitutionalism and judicial review, and interpretive method. Instead of a long final paper, students will write several shorter papers during the semester. The instructor will provide feedback on papers during the semester so that students have the opportunity to improve their writing during the course. Students will be graded based on their papers and class participation. In order to facilitate an engaged discussion, electronic devices will not be permitted. Pre/co-requisite: Constitutional Law.