Week 1 DQ 1

What is the difference between disparity and discrimination? Provide an example of ethnicity, race, or socioeconomic status that lead to disparity.

Week 1 DQ 2

Should hate be considered a crime? What arguments support the use of sentencing-enhancement penalties for hate crimes? What arguments oppose such statutes? Are hate crime laws likely to deter offenders and reduce crime?

Week 2 DQ 1

Do you think the events of September 11, 2001, changed the public’s perception of police? Explain how and why.

Week 2 DQ 2

When does police use of force become excessive or unjustified? Provide a definition of excessive force

Week 3 DQ 1

Are racial minorities who are represented by public defenders or assigned counsel treated more harshly than those represented by private attorneys? If you were an African American, Hispanic, or Native American defendant and could choose whether to be represented by a public defender or a private attorney, which would you choose? Explain why

Week 3 DQ 2

Assume that racial minorities are more likely than Whites to be detained prior to trial. Why is this a matter for concern? What are the consequences of pretrial detention? How might the bail system be reformed to reduce this disparity?

Week 4 DQ 1

Explain some of the known causes of wrongful convictions. What are some possible remedies?

Week 4 DQ 2

When do you think it is justifiable to sentence a juvenile as an adult? Explain your answer.