HI 315 The History of Human Rights in International Law
On 10 December 1948 the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was ratified by the members of the United Nations. Affirming the “inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family” the document formed a frame-work of rights in international law following the brutality of World War II. But what are “Human Rights” and how have they evolved within human history? A history that is replete with wars, brutality, slavery, oppression, where are universal human rights in world history? This course will explore the development of human rights and the corresponding framing of international laws, examining the global interdependence and connections between aspiration and application of “equal and inalienable rights” for all. Do we find concepts of human rights in pre-modern history, in diverse cultures, does it pose a tension between Western values and a global response? There are all questions and ideas that will be explored within the class focusing on global interconnections and the requirements of international interdependence and cooperation to achieve the ideals embedded within the Declaration. For majors, this will be categorized under the World concentration.
Offered
As Needed