Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On completion of this subject students should have (1) broadened their knowledge of criminal law and procedure and the operation of the criminal justice system; (2) acquired an understanding of feminist legal theory and criminology relevant to the study of gender, crime and criminality; (3) gained an awareness of the role of gender in the formulation and operation of criminal laws and the criminal justice system; and (4) developed skills in research and writing and in the oral presentation of ideas. On completion of this subject students should be able to critically analyse developments in criminal law and the criminal justice system in the light of the theoretical perspectives gained in the course and conduct and write about an independent research project.
Synopsis This subject provides an introduction to feminist legal theory, and feminist and other theories of criminality and examines a range of issues in the criminal law and criminal justice system in the light of these theoretical perspectives. Areas to be covered include violence and gender, including censures of violent behaviours, the public/private dichotomy, and the operation of criminal defences such as provocation, self-defence and Battered Woman Syndrome; an examination of criminal laws regulating sexuality such as rape, prostitution and abortion laws; and gender issues in sentencing and imprisonment.
Assessment Written research assignment (5000 words): 50% + Class participation: 20% + Take-home examination: 30%