In this Course, we will explore the concept of "mercy," defined both as inter-personal forgiveness and as reduced punishment effectuated by law. We will cover moral theories of mercy, including the basic tenstion between mercy and retributive justice. We will also study mercy-giving institutions in American law, including prosecutors, judges, juries, and various clemency arrangements. Among other things, there will be units on mass incarceration, the death penalty, and youth. We will also read one or two books/memoirs as case studies in mercy.
Kovarsky, Lee 