Module info

This module provides a broad introduction to debates on law, multiculturalism and rights. It looks at the national, international and European framework(s) for the protection of rights for minority groups living in culturally diverse multicultural societies with a specific focus on British society and English law. It includes analysis of debates on cultural, ethnic and racial (in)justice, decolonisation, equality laws, discrimination, claims for the introduction of personal systems of family law and issues of religion (including debates on manifestation of religious beliefs and practice). In doing so it introduces students to the concept of rights/ freedom and freedoms, tolerance, justice and equality and the historical development of the legal protection of religious, ethnic and cultural beliefs in the UK and Europe.

Law, Multiculturalism and Rights is a broad a topic and therefore the course adopts a theoretical, substantive and case-study approach.  The teaching materials provide students with the historical and theoretical foundations while adopting an interdisciplinary approach to the study of law and provides tools for analysing the material in the case studies with a critical analysis of case law and statutory instruments.  The lectures rely on directed pre-reading and student participation is therefore not only expected but vital as this fosters independent learning and the development of critical reasoning and expression of informed viewpoints. Debate will be facilitated by the module convenor.