Recognizing that in many contexts, competent law-related
analysis requires competent economic analysis, the Section advances a more
inclusive, interdisciplinary approach to law-related economic issues than the
narrow neoclassical approach that is typically employed under rubric of “law
and economics.” According to
socio-economics, competent law-related economic analysis requires a
consideration of all materially relevant principles and evidence drawn not only
from the entire discipline of economics (not limited to neoclassical economics)
but also drawn from disciplines beyond economics including anthropology,
criminology, history, philosophy (including ethics), political science,
psychology, religion, sociology, as well as
biology and other natural sciences. Informed by this broader
interdisciplinary approach, socio-economists recognize that distributional
considerations matter not only normatively (in terms of values) but also
positively (in terms of facts). Based on
these principles, law teachers are better able to prepare future lawyers in
their role as client advocates and public citizens (1) to assist people in
identifying and securing their essential economic rights, interests, and
responsibilities and (2) to assist society in improving the law.
At this session especially
directed to new law teachers and teachers new to socio-economics, a panel of
active members of the Section will (1) briefly describe how socio-economic
principles enhance their teaching, scholarship and service, and (2) respond to
questions and comments. It is the hope of the panelists that the session will help
to broaden and deepen the appreciation of socio-economic principles and
establish constructive, cooperative, continuing, professional relationships.