LAW 645 - Foundations of the Common Law

This seminar will study the foundations of the common law, with a special emphasis on the law of torts and the law of contracts. We will examine both the historical foundations of the common law (How did we get this law?) and its normative foundations (Is this law justified?). Readings for the class will include a mixture of cases, historical materials, and classic and contemporary articles on tort and contract law. We will examine normative arguments based on both economics and moral philosophy. Each student will produce a final paper, and the grade will be based on the paper and class participation. At some point during the semester, refreshments will be served.

Students can choose to have this course satisfy the writing requirement or not.