Law & Behavioral Science Seminar

Catalog description

Actual and potential uses of science in the law. The course primarily focuses on social science but considers general principles that apply to all types of science in the law. Specifically, we will look at the use of social science as fact in litigation (e.g., consumer confusion and civil damages) and as context in litigation (e.g., syndromes and criminal defenses). A secondary objective is to look at how social science can be used to understand the more general function and purpose of the courts and more specifically the application of various legal practices and policies to social problems. Third, the course examines the concept of junk science in the law including the misuse of science in litigation and legislation. Throughout the course, we will consider how empirical research can shed light on matters of importance to the legal system.