WGST 418

Domestic Violence

Our course on Domestic Violence will examine the ways the legal system shapes and enforces domestic violence law. We will examine the jurisprudence behind criminal law in general and legal foundation of domestic violence laws in particular. We will examine not only the history of domestic violence, but also the human element, studying the role of individual discretion and how neuroscience illuminates why outcomes for individuals can vary so greatly within the same legal system. We will study specific laws (e.g., mandatory arrest) and we will apply an intersectional lens to all topics discussed. This class ultimately asks if the legal system is even capable of addressing the social harm of domestic violence, and if that answer is yes, how this is to be accomplished. (Social Science)

Units: 3.0