The life of the law : anthropological projects / Laura Nader.

Author/creator Nader, Laura
Format Book
Publication InfoBerkeley : University of California Press, ©2002.
Descriptionxiii, 262 pages ; 22 cm
Supplemental ContentContributor biographical information
Supplemental ContentTable of contents
Supplemental ContentPublisher description
Subjects
Law and anthropology.

Abstract Laura Nader investigates an issue of vital importance for our time: the role of the law in the struggle for social and economic justice. In this book she gives an overview of the history of legal anthropology and at the same time urges anthropologists, lawyers, and activists to recognize the centrality of law in social change. Nader traces the evolution of the plaintiff's role in the United States in the second half of the twentieth century and argues that the atrophy of the plaintiff's power during this period represents a profound challenge to justice and democracy. Taking into account the vast changes wrought in both anthropology and the law by globalization, Nader speaks to the increasing dominance of large business corporations and the prominence of neoliberal ideology and practice today. In her discussion of these trends, she considers the rise of the alternative dispute resolution movement, which since the 1960s has been part of a major overhaul of the U.S. judicial system. Nader links the increasing popularity of this movement with the erosion of the plaintiff's power and suggests that mediation as an approach to conflict resolution is structured to favor powerful--often corporate --interests.
Local noteLittle-348003--305131054389%
Bibliography noteIncludes bibliographical references (p. 231-250) and index.
LCCN 2001027675
ISBN0520229886 (alk. paper)
ISBN9780520229884 (alk. paper)
ISBN0520231635 (alk. paper)
ISBN9780520231634 (alk. paper)

Availability

Library Location Call Number Status Item Actions
Joyner General Stacks K487.A57 N33 2002 ✔ Available Place Hold