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Johns Hopkins University | EN.650.640

Moral & Legal Foundations of Privacy

3.0

credits

Average Course Rating

(4.14)

This course explores the ethical and legal underpinnings of the concept of privacy. It examines the nature and scope of the right to privacy by addressing fundamental questions such as: What is privacy? Why is privacy morally important? How is the right to privacy been articulated in constitutional law?

Fall 2012

(3.95)

Fall 2013

(4.17)

Spring 2015

(4.07)

Spring 2023

(4.36)

Fall 2012

Professor: Michael Jacobs

(3.95)

The best aspects of the course included the interesting content, the class discussions, and interactions with the knowledgeable professor. The worst aspect of this course was the lengthy readings. The course would improve if the class was better structured with the professor actually being present in every class period and not via video. Prospective students should know that the course involves lots of readings. Those who want to take this class should be at least somewhat familiar with the U.S legal system. 189

Fall 2013

Professor: Michael Jacobs, Wil iam Sauers

(4.17)

Students found that the best aspects of this course included getting to know more about United States privacy laws and their rights as citizens. They liked the discussions and thought that they were made aware of many of the issues going on in today’s society. Students thought that some of the readings and lectures were difficult, especially since many had never read law cases before. Students suggested breaking up the lectures with more discussions and fewer PowerPoint slides. Prospective students should be prepared to do some extensive reading and have an interest in learning about the privacy laws in America.

Spring 2015

Professor: Michael Jacobs, Wil iam Sauers

(4.07)

The best aspects of the course included the broad exposure to issues surrounding privacy rights and protections. Students appreciated the breadth of topics covered as well as the organization of the readings and course materials. Some students suggested that the interactive nature of the class was occasionally counterproductive when only a few students were active participants in the class. Some students suggested that rearranging the classroom might help facilitate better participation. Prospective students should be prepared for a heavy reading load and to gain a solid background in the historical and present-day issues surrounding privacy.

Spring 2023

Professor: Matthew Welling

(4.36)