Crime and gender 415
Ms B Naylor
15 points * Two 1.5-hour seminars per week * First semester * Clayton * Prerequisites: See section 3 of the faculty resolutions
This subject examines the law's claim to objectivity in the context of the criminal law. It is proposed as a starting point that neither law in general, nor criminal laws in particular, are gender-neutral. In fact they can play an important role in constructing and reinforcing inequalities between women and men. They may also have a role to play in breaking down these inequalities. This subject involves an introduction to feminist legal theory, followed by an examination of a number of areas of substantive criminal law, sentencing and the administration of the criminal process, in the light of feminist and other writings and studies. Some questions considered include the following. What insights can an analysis of particular laws or behaviours based on gender differences offer? How might such an analysis influence reform proposals? Have women, or women's experiences, been left out of consideration in a particular law or practice? If so, how might the omission be corrected, and what difference might it make?
Assessment
Research paper (4500-5000 words): 50% * Class presentation including outline for class: 20% * Final examination: take-home paper : 30%