LAW – PROGRAMME SUBJECT IN PROGRAMMES FOR SPECIALIZATION IN GENERAL STUDIES (RTL1-01)

Law and justice is one of the building blocks in a democratic society. Knowledge of laws and regulations is therefore important, not only for the individual, but also for society as a whole. Today’s statutory framework is based on older Norwegian laws and European law. Law and justice in Norway are also linked to global developments. Law shall provide an insight into how international society, governed by the rule of law, functions.

Law shall provide knowledge about and an understanding of the rules of law as laid down in acts, directives and common law, and illustrate how the statutory framework is part of our cultural heritage and the democratic system on which our society is built. The discipline shall teach about the legal position of the Sámi as an indigenous minority in Norway. It shall also provide insight into the international legal system. Developing knowledge about how laws and rules regulate the legal relationship between individuals, between individuals and society and between states is central in the discipline.

Law shall develop the ability to interpret and apply the law in both private and professional capacities, and stimulate reflection and critical thought. One of the aims is to make the pupil aware of the fundamental values in a democracy and promote commitment and interest in being active in the development of society.

Law shall help the individual view an issue from more than one side, differentiate between law and justice and reflect on whether laws are legally and ethically sound. Teaching in this subject shall stimulate interest for legal issues. The use of legal method shall put the pupil in a better position to assess and resolve legal problems and conflicts.

To apply the rules of law means navigating your way through the statutory framework, interpreting it, exercising professional judgement and determining how a legal issue can be decided. Teaching in law shall be organized in such a way that studies are linked to practical assignments, and so that the pupils acquire training in applying the rules of law to solve the practical assignments.