On Nourishing the Curriculum with a Transnational Law Lagniappe

Abstract:     
Transnational law remains in fashion among those who revise the curricula of U.S. law schools. Supplementing traditional domestic materials with studies of international, transnational, and comparative law is indeed a solution. But what is the problem? Pedagogical reform is an experiment, and no experiment can succeed without a plan followed by observation. Much of what passes for transnational legal education (especially in brochures and on websites) lacks seriousness. It is what denizens of New Orleans call a "lagniappe" - that is, a lightweight frill, devoid of intentionality and perceived consequences. The article acknowledges the appeal of a lagniappe, and also offers suggestions for curricular planners who seek to give their students heartier transnational fare.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 19

working papers series