The Relationship of Social Science and the Justice System: Views from Social Psychology

Abstract

Both those working within and around the justice system, such as court administrators, and those who study it, are aware that tension exists be tween social science and the legal system. Although these books do not focus on that tension, it is an underlying theme. To enhance the relationship, peo ple from both groups need to develop a better understanding of each other. There is also a tension between different types of social scientists which could benefit from greater understanding. Increasingly, psychologists are becoming involved in research and consultation to the courts. These books, written by psychologists, can help decrease problems associated with dif fering approaches and needs. Political scientists and sociologists who study judicial administration, and court administrators who often must contend with psychologists, can gain a better understanding of psychologists, espe cially social psychologists, while psychologists can learn from the experience of others. Kaplan and 18 other respected members of the psychology and law com munity wrote 11 chapters which address the application of social psycho logical knowledge to procedural aspects of the justice system. Kaplan's pur pose was to provide a resource for both legal professionals and psychologists interested in the legal system. The title of the Nietzel and Dillehay book is somewhat misleading. Their purpose was to provide a guide for psycholo gists who wish to consult in litigation, which goes beyond simple courtroom consultation. At one level of analysis, both volumes provide a guide, particularly for ex