Toward Mythos and Mythology: Applying a Feminist Critique to Legal Education to Effectuate a Socialization of Both Sexes in Law School Classrooms

Authors

PollyBeth Proctor, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, L.L.P.

Abstract

The article critiques the current state of legal education and the legal profession, arguing that they suffer from a decline in ethical standards, public service, and empathy. It proposes a feminist-inspired reform agenda to address these issues by incorporating values such as collaboration, context, emotions, ethics, and empathy into legal training. The analysis highlights the limitations of traditional teaching methods, particularly the Socratic method, which fosters an adversarial and narrow approach to legal reasoning. The article advocates for a balanced approach that integrates both rational and emotional intelligence to prepare holistic practitioners who prioritize justice and service.

Disciplines

Education Law | Law | Law and Gender | Legal Education | Legal Ethics and Professional Responsibility

Recommended Citation

PollyBeth Proctor, Toward Mythos and Mythology: Applying a Feminist Critique to Legal Education to Effectuate a Socialization of Both Sexes in Law School Classrooms, 10 Cardozo J. Equal Rts. & Soc. Just. 577 (2004).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/cardozoersj/vol10/iss3/3