Legal Socialization

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Abstract
Theories of legal socialization can be classified as either content or process models. Although process models are important, the present paper suggests they suffer from two major misconceptions: (1) a lack of interest in the behavioral consequences of legal judgments, and (2) the assumption that judgments are the cause of actions. An alternative model for understanding the processes underlying legal socialization is presented. The model suggests that man is a rule-following animal and these tendencies reflect human biology and promote human survival. Within the framework of this model we present an analysis of the sociopsychological conditions that enable law to be used as an instrument of social reform. This analysis raises serious questions concerning the possibility of using the law for these purposes.

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