Ethical Issues in the Law: A Novel Approach (JS 619)

Why should I take this course?

This course is designed to spark in-depth discussion and analysis of ethical behavior and justice at the point which law, literature, and life experience intersect. Participants will immerse themselves in literary works that serve as the focal point of discussion. The curriculum involves a two-text approach: the literary text (a play, short story, novel, poem or essay) and the life text (the life experience of the judge who participates in the discussions). Participants attend plays at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and discuss the ethical dilemmas posed within the plays as the dilemmas relate to the judiciary. Participants must read the assigned literary texts prior to attending this course.

Who should attend?

This course is appropriate for any type of judge, but especially judges with at least ten years on the bench. Judges who are willing to look at the foundations from which they make decisions should attend to explore the ethical and professional dilemmas they face.

Who are the members of the faculty?

Faculty members are members of the judiciary with an interest in literature and the humanities, who are versed in the model code of judicial conduct and facilitating discussions that dovetail ethics and literature.

How is this course taught?

In advance of the course, participants will be given access to the required readings. The course is taught as a facilitated discussion group with faculty providing background information and facilitating dialog about the plays seen during the week and the literature read in advance.

What should I tell my presiding judge or funding agency so that my attendance will be approved?

This course uses literature as a vehicle to explore questions of ethics and justice, and the role and function of the judge in these contexts. The texts provide a common basis for discussion and sharing ideas about ethical behavior on and off the bench. The judge’s own experiences provide the “subtext” for the course.

Whom should I contact for more information?

For more information, please contact the Registrar’s Office at (800) 255-8343 or registrar@judges.org.