The Social Epistemology of Legal Trials

This collection examines the epistemological issues underlying legal trials, such as how much credence jurors should give to eyewitness testimony, the admissibility and role of statistical evidence, and the appropriate standards of proof. It will be of interest to scholars and upper-level students working on issues at the intersection of epistemology and philosophy of law.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive collection is the first book-length exploration of the diverse epistemological challenges inherent in legal trials. Trials revolve around the crucial task of ascertaining truth, whether a criminal defendant has indeed perpetrated the alleged offense or whether a civil defendant is indeed accountable for the damages claimed by the plaintiff.

However, it is important to recognize that truth is not the sole epistemic value that pertains to the conduct of trials. We may argue that a jury should not convict a defendant, even if they are factually guilty, unless its members possess knowledge or are justified in believing that the defendant committed the crime in question. Similarly, we can reasonably assume that the trier of fact must possess a certain level of understanding to arrive at an adequate verdict in any case. Nonetheless, legitimate questions arise regarding the appropriate threshold of understanding that should be required.

The essays compiled in this volume delve into a wide array of epistemological issues raised by trials, including the degree of credence jurors should accord to eyewitness testimony, the admissibility and significance of statistical evidence, and the appropriate standards of proof in various contexts. The Social Epistemology of Legal Trials will captivate scholars and advanced students engaged in the intersection of epistemology and philosophy of law.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367704049