Queen’s University is set to introduce a unique addition to its curriculum this September with the launch of a Taylor Swift-themed law course. Mohamed Khimji, a professor of business law and self-proclaimed Swiftie, will spearhead the initiative aimed at making entertainment law more accessible and engaging for students.
Drawing inspiration from Swift’s illustrious career and legal battles, Khimji’s course titled “Law (Taylor’s Version)” will delve into topics such as trademarks, copyright, and contracts within the realm of entertainment law. Khimji believes Swift’s re-recordings of her albums, known as “Taylor’s versions,” hold significant academic value due to their transformative impact on the music industry.
The genesis of the idea stemmed from a conversation Khimji had with a colleague regarding Swift’s decision to re-record her albums. Recognizing the relevance of such discussions to his students, Khimji sought to integrate Swift’s experiences into the academic sphere.
Swift’s well-documented legal disputes, including her vocal opposition to the sale of her masters and copyright infringement lawsuits, will serve as case studies to elucidate legal principles outside the confines of traditional textbooks.
While this marks Queen’s University’s first venture into a Taylor Swift-themed law class, it is not the institution’s first encounter with Swift-centric academia. In 2022, the university offered a course focused on Swift’s songwriting prowess and literary contributions.
Acknowledging initial skepticism from colleagues, Khimji remained steadfast in his conviction to bridge pop culture with legal education. Despite scrutiny, the course has garnered approval and will be integrated into Queen’s curriculum, offering students a novel perspective on the intersection of law and entertainment.
In Khimji’s view, the incorporation of pop culture enhances the relatability and engagement of legal studies, aligning with the overarching goal of preparing students for real-world applications of their knowledge post-graduation.
Reflecting on the journey to bring the course to fruition, Khimji draws inspiration from Swift’s own resilience, stating, “As Taylor Swift would say: haters gonna hate, you just gotta shake it off.” With enthusiasm and determination, Khimji looks forward to the launch of “Law (Taylor’s Version)” this September, poised to inspire a new generation of legal minds through the lens of pop culture icon Taylor Swift.