Extreme American Neighborhood Law

Abstract

This Article explores narratives of extreme American neighbors acting badly - to other neighbors, to the police and to themselves. Starting with a philosophical-religious-psychological assessment of the neighbor as tragic construct, the Article quantifies and analyzes American neighbor jurisprudence in the opening years of the twenty-first century. The cautionary tales reveal ongoing, serious, and destructive meltdowns involving neighbors throughout the United States. The Article notes that while state and federal judges have done a fair job in resolving these vexing disputes under traditional criminal law, tort and property principles, it is high time for some new approaches. In formulating an epistemic theory of extreme neighborhood conflict, the Article closes with an overarching gestalt, suggests a mapping of American neighborhood law, and concludes with a few ideas for potential pragmatic policy responses.