Sample Question, Chapter 1: According to Vago (Introduction), the study of law by sociologists is “hampered” by a particular set of difficulties. Identify and explain those difficulties.

Sample Question, Chapter 4: According to Vago (Lawmaking), “neither legislators’ recognition of a social problem nor their recognition of a group’s particular claims for action is certain to lead to legislation.” He indicates there are three other factors that, when present, increase the chance of legislation being enacted. Identify and explain two of those factors.

Sample Question, Chapter 7: According to Vago (Law and Dispute Resolution) in order to use the courts to resolve a dispute, actors must demonstrate both justiciability and standing. Explain these two concepts.

Sample Question, Nature of Law and Legal Systems: Identify one argument in favor of the death penalty which has elements of social science and one argument opposed to the death penalty that has elements of social science.  Explain the elements of social science in each case.

Sample Question, Organization of the Law: There are arguments favoring “bright line rules” and arguments favoring “balancing tests” as approaches to law.  Identify and explain one argument favoring each one.

Sample Question, Summary and Conclusions: Donohue, in his article “Clinton and Bush’s Report Cards on Crime Reduction,” argues that in two particular areas of crime prevention law the Bush Administration has undermined gains made during the Clinton years.  What are those two areas?  Explain.