History and State of the Art of Applied Social Research in the Courts (From Use/Nonuse/Misuse of Applied Social Research in the Courts, 1980, P 2, 15-18, Michael J Saks and Charles H Baron, ed. - See NCJ-75219)

• NCJ Number: 75222
• Author(s): S L Wasby
• Date Published: 1980
• Length: 5 pages
• Sale Source: Abt Books
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The judicial attitudes toward social science data and the reluctance of judges to use are discussed, as are areas in which these data can be useful to courts.

Abstract

Courts continue to be ambivalent about the use of social science evidence. The general public often misunderstands social science, and lawyers lack training in the methods and techniques of social science. While some justices appear to have a good knowledge of social science can be used not only in the courts, but outside the courts in assisting them to obtain perspectives on themselves. Social scientists can also provide insight into the courts' problems and even present views on sensitive matters which the lawyers may not want to present directly to judges. The Federal Judicial Center (FJC) has access to information and the ability to collect data quickly, and hence it carries out good studies. But justices tend to be unwilling to accept findings which run counter to their conventional wisdom, particularly where they have publicly advocated a specific reform. Pertinent cases and relevant literature are discussed. The use of social science in privacy and Supreme Court cases is touched upon.