The Liberal Society and its Discontents: Challenges of Religion, Diversity, and Integration
UE-DDR.02427
| Enseignant(s): Rochel Johan |
| Cursus: Master |
| Type d'enseignement: Cours |
| ECTS: 5 |
| Langue(s) du cours: Anglais |
| Semestre(s): SP-2026 |
This master's course focuses on the legal-philosophical challenges of the liberal society. In particular, it focuses on religion’s issues and take them as examples of the broader challenges linked to diversity and integration.
The course is structured around four main questions:
- Is religion a category with special value under the law, or should it be treated like other forms of ethical convictions?
- Should the state be separated from religion, and if so, in what ways?
- Should the state accommodate specific religious demands, for example in the form of legal exemptions?
- Why is religion an interesting illustration of broader debates about diversity and integration within the liberal society?
These questions lie at the heart of a rich body of legal and philosophical literature. They also represent key controversies shaping public debate.
The course addresses these issues from a legal philosophy perspective. As such, it aims to uncover the concepts and arguments used to tackle questions related to religion. Case-law from different jurisdiction will be used to exemplify legal-philosophical arguments and justification.
Active participation in the course requires preparatory readings and the study of case law, which are discussed in class. People without background in law are welcome to join the course (assuming they are ready to invest time in understanding legal methodology). The teaching method is participatory and emphasizes in-class debates. A good understanding of English is necessary for the assigned readings and the discussion.
This course will not be available via livestream.
Examens
The assessment consists of a two-hour written exam in an "open book" format. The exam includes essay-style questions and is designed to evaluate the student’s ability to develop independent reasoning based on the concepts explored during the course. The exam will be prepared in class with specific discussion sessions (mock exam).
Objectifs
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Master the main concepts of liberalism
- Map the key normative questions concerning the relationship between law and religion
- Understand the different philosophical positions on the course's four main questions within liberal states
- Connect religion’s issues with debates about diversity and integration
- Deepen their understanding of the concept of integration in a liberal state
- Structure arguments and identify the key issues raised by landmark court decisions across different jurisdictions