Postgraduate coursework

JURS6018 - Constitutional Theory

Objectives

Address the role that constitutionalism is expected to play in a democratic state, and explore various constitutional theories.
Examine theoretical attempts at reconciling commitments to constitutionalism with emphasis on democratic participation.

Content

Is it paradoxical that a state governed by majority rules withdraws certain areas from collective decision-making? Various theories of constitutionalism, of constitutional interpretation, and of constitutional judicial review; the question of constitutional charters of rights, different models of judicial review, separation of powers, direct democracy and the functions of constitutions in transitions to democratic systems.

Session

Semester 2 Intensive
2, 3 & 16, 17 August 2013

The timetable is subject to frequent changes. Please refer to the latest version of the Postgraduate Timetable.

Assessment

Oral Presentation (20%)
Class Participation (20%)
1 x 4,500 Word Essay (60%)

Legal Professional Development (LPD)

You can credit this unit towards Legal Professional Development (LPD). Units of study that are part of Sydney Law School’s Postgraduate Program meet the necessary Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) of the Law Society of New South Wales and the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements of the New South Wales Bar Association. You may complete this unit of study by enrolling on a non-degree basis or on an audit basis only with no assessment via Single Unit Enrolment.

Courses this unit is available in

The University of Sydney - Sydney Law School