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Unit of study_
LAWS3520: Psychology and Law
2022 unit information
Law, at its heart, is a human endeavour. It is deeply impacted by the way in which people think, feel and behave. Accordingly, Psychology is an important framework for understanding most legal issues. In particular, psychology illuminates: the conflicts that have inspired legal doctrines, the characteristics of those who create and administer the law, and the challenges that occur when a particular legal system is imposed on individuals. This connection was recently highlighted when Richard Thaler won the 2017 Nobel Prize in Economics for his work in psychology and law. We will explore the study and practice of law through the lens of empirically-tested psychological theories. The course begins with an examination of the three major groups involved in a legal action: the parties to the actions, the judges, and the jury. These topics provide a firm theoretical understanding of classic psychological processes (i.e., attitudinal biases, decision-making, and social cognition) as applied to legal concepts. The course builds on this theoretical framework to explore specific areas of law, including sentencing and evidence. We end on a practical slant, studying two topics that will most likely be important to students - how to employ the psychology of persuasion in advocacy work, and how to use the science of well- being to build a healthy and sustainable law practice.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Sydney Law School
| Study level | Undergraduate |
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| Academic unit | Law |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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None |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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LAWS5220 |
| Assumed knowledge:
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None |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. Identify and understand various cognitive, social, and affective processes that impact the legal system.
- LO2. Identify both longstanding and emerging legal issues, and analyze their psychological basis.
- LO3. Consider and analyze the cognitive processes and heuristics involved in effective advocacy and persuasion.
- LO4. Identify and analyze the emotional and affective mechanisms that form the basis of a healthy and successful legal practice.
- LO5. Conduct and complete an effective novel research project in the field of psychology and law.
- LO6. Engage with other students and teacher to discuss the application of psychology to legal issues and problems.
Unit availability
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Modes of attendance (MoA)
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Important enrolment information
Departmental permission requirements
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