A critical analysis of the way the American criminal justice system operates, focusing on the nature of law, the police, and the courts. Examines current issues in law enforcement such as corruption, brutality, use of deadly force, politics and policy administration, resource management, stress, community relations, and major court decisions. An exploration of the ways in which gender influences who is and is not considered criminal, why women are often socialized to be the victims of crime and men the perpetrators of such actions, and how such behaviors are used to maintain and support pre-existing inequalities. As such, special attention will also be paid to how issues of social class, ethnicity, and sexual orientation often temper these societal outcomes. A hands-on class conducted by a Superior Court Judge.
Students observe actual trials and are instructed about the proceedings by the judge.
Specific topics to be chosen by professor. An examination of the American correctional system, from its origins to the present day. Focuses on philosophical and policy issues and debates that confront our society in attempting to deal with criminal offenders. Field trips to local, state and federal correction facilities. A comparison of criminal justice systems from around the world using the Internet and a seminar format.