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Academic Year 2004/2005

The Politics and Theory of the First Amendment: The Religion Clauses
GOVT 379 FA

This course will examine the historical origins, philosophical foundations, and case law of the religion clauses of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. Among the issues we will consider shall be what types of expression and religious belief the Amendment protects and what it does not protect. In each of these areas, and in the other areas we will cover, our purpose will be to explore the fundamental issues in democratic and constitutional theory that these subjects raise.

MAJOR READINGS

Our readings will concentrate on the case law of the First Amendment and a large selection of important scholarly works.

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

There will be no examinations in this course. Students will be expected to prepare a series of short papers for in-class discussion and a longer research paper on a subject approved by the Professor.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

This is an advanced seminar. Students will be required to have completed either GOVT 203 or 250.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture/Discussion

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: SBS GOVT    Grading Mode: Graded   

Prerequisites: GOVT203 OR GOVT250 Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-21-2005

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