LFU:online

Introduction to comparative law, its aims, functions and methods with a special emphasis on terminology.

The course will outline the basics of comparative law in their historical and practical context. Important jurisdictions from the legal families of the world will be introduced to the students. The course will also shed light on various special problems from the angle of different jurisdictions. Examples will be taken from contract and tort law, property and succession. By comparing the structure and solutions of different legal system students shall develop a better understanding of the solutions of their home legal systems. This also allows a more critical review of these solutions. The lecture will also outline the importance of comparative law in the harmonisation and unification processes.  

Particular emphasis shall be laid on terminological questions. Parts of the lecture will be held in English.

Due to attending (virtual) guest lectures, the schedule may change. 

Lecture, discussion of case law, online elements

Written exam, online tests

Kischel, Rechtsvergleichung (2015); Rainer, Europäisches Privatrecht - Die Rechtsvergleichung (2. Aufl. 2007); Rainer, Introduction to Comparative Law, (2010); Ranieri, Europäisches Obligationenrecht (3. Aufl. 2009); Schwenzer/Müller-Chen, Rechtsvergleichung (2. Aufl. 2008); Zweigert / Kötz, Einführung in die Rechtsvergleichung (3. Aufl. 1996) auch in englischer Übersetzung von Tony Weir; Reimann/Zimmermann, The Oxford Handbook of Comparatie Law (2006); Siems, Comparative Law (2014)

Course held primarily in English!