Topic 1 Slides(1)

Winter Class Schedule

• On Site (In-Person) Classes

  • Days: Tuesdays and Thursdays

  • Time: 3:00 PM – 4:20 PM

  • Location: Rm 2304

  • Instructor: Brandon De Jong, M.A., J.D.

  • Course Code: PHIL 2319 A: Philosophy of Law

Communication & Course Overview

• Welcome Email

  • Sent on Monday, Jan. 6

  • If not received, verify email enrollment

  • Email is primary communication tool for important info

  • Check RDP emails regularly

Today's Agenda

• Class Tasks

  • Course Overview (~40 min)

  • Philosophy Content Introduction (~40 min)

Instructor Background

• Brandon De Jong

  • Preference for being called ‘Brandon’

  • Education:

    • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology & Philosophy

    • Juris Doctor from University of Victoria

    • Master of Arts in Philosophy

  • Personal: Proud father of identical twin boys

Course Resources

• Textbook: No required textbook

  • All readings available on Blackboard

Attendance Policy

• Attend classes regularly to keep up with content

  • Essential for acquiring philosophical skills

  • No need to email for absence if:

    • Feeling sick

    • Emergency

  • Materials posted on Blackboard for review if missed

• Health Consideration:

  • Encouragement to stay home when sick

  • Exams will cover materials from lectures and readings

Student Evaluation

• Assessment Breakdown:

  • Exams (25% + 25%)

  • Analytic Essay (30%)

  • Reflective Essay (20%)

  • Detailed evaluation criteria in course outline

Course Progression

• PHIL 2319 Build-up:

  • Builds on PHIL 1201: Values & Society

  • 1201: Introductory Ethics

  • 2319: Advanced Ethics focused on Legal Philosophy

• No prerequisites required

  • Course aims to address varying levels of experience

  • For those who took PHIL 1201, initial weeks may be review

Introduction to Legal Concepts

• Discussion Prompt: What do you think of when you hear "law"?

  • Engage with initial thoughts on law

Law and Governance

Police and Law Enforcement

• Key Responsibilities: Maintain law and order

Lawyers and Legal Disputes

• They are responsible for helping clients navigate the law

Court Systems

• Roles of Judges and Courtrooms: Interpreting and enforcing law

Contracts

• Overview of Terms and Conditions:

• Importance of understanding legal obligations

Constitutional Rights

• Foundations of Law:

  • Preamble: Establishing justice and promoting the general welfare

  • Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms:

    • Fundamental Freedoms

    • Democratic Rights

    • Mobility Rights

    • Equality Rights

Functions of Law

• Law's Role:

  • Limits freedom and regulates behaviors

  • Enables actions like marriage, contracts, property rights

  • Protects from harm and maintains social order

  • Shapes political systems, underpinning government actions

Course Content Overview

Part 1: The Nature of Law

• Central Questions:

  • What is the nature of law?

  • Relationship between law and government

  • Are all laws sourced from governments?

  • Characteristics defining what makes a law a law

  • Disagreements about legality and their implications

  • Relation between law and moral concepts

Part 2: The Origin and Purpose of Law

• Key Questions:

  • Why do we have law?

  • Social purpose of law and equity in benefits

  • Protection from self and societal implications

  • Discussion on freedom: does law limit or enhance it?

  • Conditions for lawful obedience and addressing unjust laws