Law and the Political Process: Seminar
Spring term, Block I
T 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Professor Lani Guinier
2 classroom credits LAW-96445A
2, 3, or 4 optional clinical credits Spring LAW-96445C
This seminar will consider the way law informs and regulates representation and participation in the political process. We will examine constitutional constraints on legislative apportionment, districting, the role of political parties and access to the ballot. We will explore the relationship between democratic principles and the electoral participation of racial, language, and political minorities. We will study in depth the Voting Rights Act of 1965, as amended, to understand how the law both shapes and has been shaped by social movements, social science research, political theory, historical forces, and practical considerations. We shall also consider issues of alternative election systems and the role of women in politics. Constitutional Law is strongly recommended, but is not a prerequisite for this seminar. Enrollment is limited to 20 students.
Students who would like to participate in the optional clinical must enroll through clinical registration. Please refer to the Office of Clinical and Pro Bono Programs website (http://www.law.harvard.edu/academics/clinical) for clinical registration dates, early add/drop deadlines, and other clinical information.