ATS1315: Human rights theory 2

Overview

The unit investigates a number of contemporary debates about human rights which have implications in domestic and international politics. For instance: do cultural minorities have special claims to group rights? Do human rights violations invalidate government's claim to sovereignty or independence? Can group rights be reconciled with the individualistic bent of human rights theory? Do the expanding rights of children conflict with the rights of parents? The unit also investigates the ethical foundations of human rights. Do human rights represent basic moral obligations? Or are they just a way to promote good consequences? And how do human rights relate to animal rights?

Assessment

1 - Other - 20% 2 - Essay - 35% 3 - Case study - 20% 4 - Participation - 15% 5 - Quiz - 10%

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

Sustainable development goals

Adopted by the UN Member States in 2015, the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a global partnership. Read more

This unit covers content related to the following SDGs:

16. Peace Justice and Strong Institutions