Why Lawsuits are Good for America

"Judging by the frequency with which it makes an appearance in television news shows and late-night stand-up routines, the frivolous lawsuit has become an integral part of our national culture. A woman sues McDonald's because she was scalded when she spilled her coffee. Thousands file lawsuits claiming they were injured by Agent Orange, silicone breast implants, or Bendectin, although scientists report these substances do not cause the diseases in question. The United States, conventional wisdom has it, is a hyperlitigous society, propelled by avaricious lawyers, harebrained judges, and runaway juries. Lawsuits waste money and time and, moreover, many are simply groundless." "Carl T. Bogus is not so sure. In Why Lawsuits Are Good for America, Bogus argues that common law works far better than commonly understood. Indeed, Bogus contends that while the system can and occasionally does produce "wrong" results, it is very difficult for it to make flatly irrational decisions. Blending history, theory, empirical data, and colorful case studies, Bogus explains why common law, rather than being outdated, may be more necessary than ever."--Jacket.

Year

2001

Language

English

Publisher

NYU Press

Editions

2

Pages

272

ISBN

9780814713198

Data source: Wikidata