Introduction
ECON 317 was centred on the analysis and measurement of poverty and inequality, along with the identification of causes and policies linked to these issues. The aim of the course was to exhibit the intricacy of these concerns and improve the critical thinking and analytical skills of the students.
Analysis of Law 1448 of 2011
During my research, I conducted an analysis of law 1448 of 2011 in Colombia, which was created to offer restorative justice to the victims of the internal conflict. I argued that this law could also be assessed in terms of efficiency and the theories of justice, particularly Rawls and Anderson's views. My conclusion was that the government has an immediate obligation to compensate the victims of the conflict and that justice must be obtained through social recognition of property rights and individual liberties and self-worth, which leads to greater efficiency in social, economic, and political well-being.
Use of Primary and Secondary Resources
Moreover, I demonstrated your ability to use both primary and secondary resources effectively. In my analysis, I referred to the law itself as a primary source, which allowed me to gain a deep understanding of the policy's intended purpose and scope. Additionally, my ability to speak Spanish enabled me to access primary sources that were originally written in that language, such as government reports or testimonies from victims and witnesses of the internal conflict. This gave me a unique perspective on the issue, as it allowed me to analyze sources that may not have been available in English, and to gain a more nuanced understanding of the cultural and historical context surrounding the law.
Furthermore, I used secondary resources such as academic articles and books to support my argument and deepen my analysis. By drawing on a range of secondary resources, I was able to situate my analysis within a broader theoretical framework and engage with different perspectives and viewpoints.
Conclusion
Overall, my ability to use both primary and secondary resources, as well as my proficiency in Spanish, allowed me to conduct a thorough and comprehensive analysis of law 1448 of 2011 and its implications for justice and efficiency in Colombia.
Personal Reflection
Through writing this, I gained a deeper understanding of how theories of justice and efficiency can be applied to real-world policies, particularly in the context of a country like Colombia that has faced significant challenges with internal conflict and displacement. I was able to enhance my critical thinking and analytical skills by conducting research, analyzing arguments, and synthesizing information to form a cohesive conclusion. I concluded that the government has an immediate obligation to compensate the victims of the conflict and that justice must be obtained through social recognition of property rights and individual liberties and self-worth, which leads to greater efficiency in social, economic, and political well-being.
Submission
You can read my paper here: VRV - ECON 317 - Research - Final Paper
Through my research on Law 1448 in Colombia, I gained valuable skills in conducting legal and policy analysis, identifying gaps in implementation, and proposing recommendations to improve restorative justice mechanisms for victims of the internal conflict. Additionally, my research required me to develop a deep understanding of the complex social and political dynamics surrounding the conflict in Colombia, as well as an ability to critically evaluate the efficacy of policies aimed at addressing the harm caused by the conflict. Overall, this research experience has not only strengthened my analytical and critical thinking skills, but also deepened my commitment to promoting social justice and human rights in Colombia and beyond.