Anthropology

Introduction to Human Rights

Module code: 001HE
Level 4
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Lecture
Assessment modes: Portfolio

On this module, you'll look at the study of human rights, human rights issues and various approaches that different disciplines take in this field.

You'll develop a basic understanding of the international human rights system. You'll be introduced to some of the long-lasting debates surrounding human rights: their origin, history, nature, universality, how they ‘work’, and how they are ‘made real’.

You'll also explore:

• the practice of human rights in relation to specific rights (for example women’s rights, children’s rights, rights of asylum seekers and refugees)
• institutions (for example the United Nations, the European Court of Human Rights)
• laws and contexts.

You'll focus on the complex and contingent ways that human rights are practiced (defined, claimed, interpreted, challenged, implemented and monitored), as well as the possibilities and limitations of human rights in making the world a better place.

Module learning outcomes

• Identify, evaluate and interpret key debates on the nature, origin and history of human rights, on the international human rights system, and on how human rights ‘work
• Develop, structure and communicate coherent arguments regarding contemporary human rights practice and particular rights or rights-holders (e.g. in relation to women, children, minorities and refugees)
• Synthesise engagement with relevant scholarly literature, and the outcomes of classroom-based learning, into the student’s own arguments about contemporary human rights.