LAW455
Legal Seminar: Corporate Social Responsibility
(Mahmoudi)
Prerequisite courses: 451 Corporations
Prerequisite for:
Instructor(s): Professor Azar Mahmoudi
Course credit: 3
Method of presentation: Seminar
Teamwork:
METHOD OF EVALUATION
A major research paper on any topic covered in the course or as approved by the instructor (70%)
Class engagement (30%)
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This seminar explores the theoretical foundations and practical applications of the evolving field of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the law. It critically evaluates the legal and policy frameworks that have increasingly required or enabled companies to engage with social and environmental issues.
Topics may include, but are not limited to, corporate environmental regulation and climate change; the rise of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards; impact investing; business and human rights; labor rights; institutional risk assessment and compliance; anti-corruption policies and corporate accountability; greenwashing risks; Indigenous relations and reconciliation; and relevant evolving industry standards, particularly in the extractive sector. Course content may be adapted in response to student interests.
Classes will follow a seminar format, combining discussion-based learning with role play and small group exercises to analyze key legislation and case law. Students will develop a strong foundation in this rapidly expanding legal field while refining their research, writing, and analytical skills.
SPECIAL COMMENTS
Description updated 2025-26. Please contact the instructor for any specific questions you may have related to this particular course section.
REQUIRED TEXTS (IF ANY):
TBD