GIU0596 - ECCLESIASTIC LAW

The course explores how state legal systems—focusing in particular on the Italian context—address the challenges posed by religious identities in the public sphere. At the core of the course lies the fundamental right to freedom of religion, examined in its historical development and its role within positive law. In today’s globalized world, where religious affiliations continue to play a significant social and political role, the course aims to equip future legal professionals with both interpretive and practical tools to better understand socio-political dynamics and the function of legal production. Alongside the study of constitutional and legislative sources, the course includes the analysis of their concrete application through case law and real-life legal cases. This approach allows students to test and internalize theoretical knowledge by applying it to real-world scenarios. Class discussions, focused on court decisions and topical issues, will foster students’ argumentative and communication skills and encourage active participation. Students will develop the critical thinking necessary to interpret and assess legal developments concerning religious groups in today’s pluralistic societies, while learning to competently evaluate and filter the flow of information from social and mass media. This structure is fully aligned with the Dublin Descriptors, and in particular promotes: Knowledge and understanding Applying knowledge and understanding Making judgments Communication skills