Discussion (1L): Comparative Approaches to Law and Inequality

In this discussion seminar, we will examine how various countries across Europe and Latin American, as well as the United States, seek to deploy law to promote equality for subordinated groups---including especially racial minorities and women. We will examine how laws seeking to promote racial and gender equality, often developed first in the United States, came to be transplanted elsewhere, and how in the process these were transformed in significant ways. Topics will include anti-discrimination law, harassment law, affirmative action (including but not limited to quotas), and parental leave. How and why did the law change as it was transplanted from one legal system and culture into another? To the extent that different legal systems have adopted different approaches, which is preferable---and according to what metrics? Moreover, to the extent that we prefer an approach deployed elsewhere, what are the chances of adopting some version of it here in the United States (or vice versa)? This discussion seminar will meet four times during the Fall quarter. You will be notified of the meeting times by the instructor. Specific dates, time, and location will also be listed in "Notes" below. Elements used in grading: Attendance and class participation.