Law School Invocation Comments 2012

Abstract

This talk provides an introduction to the study of law, tracing the ancient roots of legal traditions from ancient Greece and Rome, through the Christianization of law in the West, to the development of the common law in England. It emphasizes the cultural specificity of legal systems and the importance of cross-cultural understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.

It argues that the purpose of legal education goes beyond the mere transmission of technical skills and knowledge. Instead, it should aim to cultivate wisdom, creativity, and a deep commitment to justice and the common good. Law schools have a responsibility to educate lawyers for citizenship in a democracy, fostering their ability to think critically about the role of law in society.

The talk critiques the "factory model" of legal education, which treats students as commodities and fails to recognize their intrinsic dignity and potential for growth. As an alternative, it advocates for a classical liberal education model that seeks to liberate students' minds and cultivate their capacity for autonomous understanding and democratic discourse.

It emphasizes the transformative power of legal education, urging students to embrace the challenges and rewards of their studies. By pursuing curiosity, questioning assumptions, seeking wisdom, acting with compassion and integrity, and pursuing justice, aspiring lawyers can become not only skilled practitioners but also responsible citizens and human beings.

The talk concludes with a call to action, inviting students to join a long and distinguished tradition of those who have used the power of law to advance the cause of justice and human flourishing. It encourages them to embrace the transformative power of legal education as a guide and inspiration for their own lives in the law.

Keywords: Legal studies, Law School, legal education, liberal learning,