The Proof: Uses of Evidence in Law, Politics, and Everything Else

In the age of fake news, legal theorist Frederick Schauer explores the nature of evidence and how it is credibly established to counter the prevalence of unfounded assertions. He argues that evidence comes in degrees and that weak evidence is still some evidence, while the absence of evidence is not evidence of absence. The Proof provides insights into how to reason more effectively in everyday life and takes evidence as a pervasive problem, not just a matter of legal rules.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 24 June 2022
Publisher: Harvard University Press

In a world plagued by the pervasive presence of "fake news," where public figures routinely make unfounded assertions as a matter of course, a renowned legal theorist embarks on a captivating journey that spans across the courtroom, the scientific laboratory, and the profound insights of philosophers. Their mission? To delve into the very essence of evidence and unveil the mechanisms through which it can be credibly established.

In the age of fake news, the foundations of trust and truth seem to crumble under the weight of deception. Public figures, with their audacious misuse of what appears to be evidence, cast a shadow of doubt upon our understanding of the world. However, preeminent legal theorist Frederick Schauer emerges as a beacon of hope, offering corrective measures to navigate this treacherous landscape.

Drawing upon centuries of scholarly inquiry into the nature of evidence, Schauer proposes a comprehensive framework for understanding the multifaceted nature of evidence. He recognizes that evidence serves different purposes in various contexts, such as policymaking, the legal system, science, and everyday decision-making. Each domain employs distinct standards of evidence, requiring a nuanced approach to evaluate its credibility.

Through a meticulous exploration of diverse topics, including vaccine and food safety, election-fraud claims, the events of January 2021 at the US Capitol, the reliability of experts and eyewitnesses, climate science, art authentication, and even astrology, The Proof offers fresh insights into the formidable challenge of reaching the truth. Schauer skillfully combines perspectives from law, statistics, psychology, and the philosophy of science to evaluate the role of evidence in and out of the courtroom. He argues that evidence exists on a spectrum, with weak evidence still providing some basis for belief. The absence of evidence, rather than being a definitive proof of absence, can be interpreted as a lack of compelling evidence to support a claim. Furthermore, prolonged and futile efforts to substantiate a claim, even if they fail to establish its truthfulness, can be seen as contributing to the establishment of a negative narrative.

In this enlightening book, Schauer delves into the intricacies of reasoning and offers practical strategies for improving our ability to reason effectively in everyday life. He sheds light on the common pitfalls that lead to poor reasoning and provides valuable insights into how we can overcome these biases. By examining the cognitive processes that underlie our decision-making, Schauer helps us understand why people often reason poorly and offers practical tools for improving our critical thinking skills.

The Proof is not merely a theoretical exploration but a practical guide for navigating the complex world of evidence. It empowers readers with the knowledge and skills necessary to discern between credible sources of information and the deceptive tactics of fake news. By cultivating a discerning mindset and relying on rigorous evidence-based reasoning, we can navigate the treacherous waters of information overload and make informed decisions that contribute to a more trustworthy and informed society.

In conclusion, in a world where trust and truth are increasingly elusive, The Proof emerges as a vital resource for those seeking to navigate the realm of evidence. Through a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach, Frederick Schauer offers a profound exploration of the nature of evidence, its diverse applications, and the challenges of reaching the truth. This book empowers readers with the knowledge and skills necessary to discern between credible sources of information and the deceptive tactics of fake news. By cultivating a discerning mindset and relying on rigorous evidence-based reasoning, we can navigate the treacherous waters of information overload and make informed decisions that contribute to a more trustworthy and informed society.

Dimension: 210 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780674251373