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Direct Democracy

Past Offerings

Direct Democracy (7004): In recent years, the use of ballot measures has sharply risen, and initiatives and referenda have featured prominently in contested debates over immigration, affirmative action, abortion, same sex marriage and term limits. In the wake of the Dobbs decision on abortion, controversies about ballot measures have become especially salient in many states. This seminar will focus on direct democracy as a method of lawmaking. Our principal focus will be on initiatives and referenda, but we will allocate some time to the recall, as well. We will consider the history, practice, theoretical justifications, and constitutional dimensions of direct democracy, as well as how direct democracy interacts with representative democracy. We will also explore many legal questions that have arisen as ballot measures have been used as instruments of governance and policy. Topics will include whether direct democracy comports with the federal constitution; judicial review and interpretation of ballot measures; minority rights under direct democracy; election rules relating to signature gathering, qualifying ballot measures and campaign finance; attempts to make it more difficult for voters to qualify and pass ballot measures; and the role of interest groups. Each student will briefly present on one particular ballot measure that is linked to that week's topics. Students will write either multiple response papers or a final research paper (for R credit) on a topic to be worked out with the instructor. Special Instructions: After the term begins, students accepted into the course can transfer from section (01) into section (02), which meets the R requirement, with consent of the instructor. Students taking the seminar for R credit can take the seminar for either 2 or 3 units, depending on the paper length. Elements used in grading: Class participation, assignments, multiple response papers or a final paper.

Sections

Direct Democracy | LAW 7004 Section 01 Class #1087

  • 2 Units
  • Grading: Law Honors/Pass/Restrd Cr/Fail
  • 2023-2024 Autumn
    Schedule No Longer Available
  • Enrollment Limitations: Lottery 18
  • Course Category:
    • Public Law

  • 2023-2024 Autumn
    Schedule No Longer Available

Direct Democracy | LAW 7004 Section 02 Class #1088

  • 2 3 Units
  • Grading: Law Honors/Pass/Restrd Cr/Fail
  • 2023-2024 Autumn
    Schedule No Longer Available
  • Enrollment Limitations: Consent
  • Graduation Requirements:
    • R -Research Requirement for Law Degree
  • Learning Outcomes Addressed:
    • LO3 - Ability to Conduct Legal Research
    • LO4 - Ability to Communicate Effectively in Writing
  • Course Category:
    • Public Law

  • 2023-2024 Autumn
    Schedule No Longer Available
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