| SOC 360 The Death Penalty Dr. Ernie Thomson [email protected] Hoover 109 Course Description This course is an introduction to the history and development of capital punishment as a social and political institution in Western societies, with a special focus on the contemporary situation in the United States and several individual states (Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, New York, Texas, etc.). There will also be a focus on basic problems with capital punishment systems at local, state, and national levels, and a close examination of the deep historical and institutional roots of these problems in our society and in our state and federal legal systems. Course Objectives First, to closely examine the "real death penalty" (its history and how it works) and assess its practicality, fairness, and effect on our legal system and society. Second, to examine historical changes in the death penalty that shed light on more general "criminal justice" policies and practices in our society. Third, to assist students in understanding the complexity of institutions in modern societies, the materials available for enhancing understanding of modern institutions, and developing critical, analytical, and writing skills that will enable students to both understand and contribute to these materials. Readings Internet pages/sites and lecture outlines accessible at the class website: http://erniethomson.com (some of the class material can be read online, some will need to be downloaded/printed) Office Hours Office hours will be posted on my homepage and on my office door. Appointments can be made for other times - email is the best way to make appointments. Grading Policy Course grades will be based on two exams (included on the schedules), two quizzes (one during the first half of the semester and another during the second half), and a termpaper: Midterm exam 30% Final exam 30% Termpaper 20% Quizzes 20% ** There are no extra credit projects for this class so stay up to date with the readings! |