Law as entertainment
It is clear that people have an 'intuitive sense' of law, but where does that sense come from? This session will introduce the concept that ideas about law (including aspects such as crime and justice) can be identified through images and aspects of popular culture. So, can we see representation of law in film, TV and music? Students will be invited to sample different aspects of popular culture and to view the ways in which such cultural ideas can influence social attitudes to law. Examples of popular culture are used to progress discussion - with interactive exercises - designed to consider the broad nature of law in society, and how it can then be studied.
This taster session is ideal for students who have an interest in law in film and music, the nature of culture and perceptions of law and crime, and who wish to learn about careers in the legal profession or the entertainment industry (writers or artists).
Duration: 45 minutes to two hours
Maximum number of students: 30
Law in society
Law is a fascinating subject, but what exactly do we mean by 'law'? This session allows students to investigate the meaning of law and to consider the constituent aspects of a legal system. Students will consider whether laws are merely rules, or do they derive from some moral perspective? A structured presentation allows for small groups to consider the nature and scope of law's constituent ingredients. The big questions will be considered: is there a right approach? Is law merely about power? Does it work - is law effective? Why do we have so many laws in our society?
This taster session is ideal for students who have an interest in law as reality, or law as conceptual, the nature of social developments, perceptions of law and legal systems, and who wish to learn about careers in the legal profession, public services, or the third sector and charities.
Duration: 45 minutes to two hours
Maximum number of students: 30
Law and sexual equality
An analysis of how the law helps to shape the social attitudes to sexual equality; looking at the nature of equality and focusing on aspects of bias, prejudice and discrimination. How have social attitudes to gender and sexuality been reflected in recent legislative changes, such as the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013? The session will include a Q&A on how those factors shape legal/social attitudes, followed by a plenary - has the law got it right?
Duration: 90 minutes (minimum)
Maximum number of students: 30
Analysis of crime and law
An investigation as to the nature of criminal behaviour - what are crimes, and why are they regulated by law? How can we identify criminal behaviour, and how do lawyers separate law and morals in order to discern those behaviours that are illegal? The workshop will also discuss the legal meaning of 'harm', and the moral/legal obligations to protect against causing harm to others.
Duration: 90 minutes (minimum)
Maximum number of students: 30
Fact analysis and law
An investigation as to the nature of facts - what are they and why are they important? How can we identify facts, and how do lawyers separate varying facts in order to discern those that are 'material'? Why do lawyers see facts (and the obvious) differently from others?
Duration: 90 minutes (minimum)
Maximum number of students: 30
