Jurisprudence

Description

This course will address the nature of jurisprudence and western theories of law, especially the classical, modern and contemporary natural theories of law and theories on positive law, then, the imperative and command theories of law, legal positivism, incl. Marxist legal theory and liberalism and utilitarianism in law, Kelsen’s theory of law, Hart’s concept of law, Dworkin’s integrity and interpretation of law.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:
– Pass their University of London external assessment;
– Elaborate upon the nature of jurisprudence;, discuss legal positivism, the Hart-Fuller debate, Dworkin’s criticism; moral theory; natural law; legal reason, and give an in-depth analysis of select legal texts;
– Demonstrate critical assessment of legal theories and debate by questioning their internal consistency and coherence as well as their foundational assumptions;
– Apply abstract philosophical argument to real problems and contexts;
– Produce a sustained and well-constructed argument orally and in written form.