Speaker Series 2025 February 28th

The Centre for Research in Reasoning, Argumentation & Rhetoric along with the PhD in Argumentation Studies at the University of Windsor invite you to a talk by

Christos D. Strubakos, J.D., Ph.D.

Legal Persuasion: Insights from Cognitive Psychology and Neuroscience

ABSTRACT: This talk aims to explore the psychological mechanisms that underlie legal persuasion, with a focus on cognitive psychology and neuroscience. The ability to persuade, whether in a courtroom or legislative context, hinges on understanding how individuals process information, form judgments, and make decisions. This talk will examine how cognitive biases, neural processes, and emotional regulation impact legal persuasion, offering insights that can improve practice strategies and enhance the effectiveness of legal systems.

The talk will consider cognitive biases that can skew legal decision-making, potentially leading to unjust outcomes. It will also explore how cognitive load and information overload can affect decision-making, especially when individuals, like jurors, are asked to assess complex legal arguments. Further explored will be neuroscientific research on the brain regions involved in persuasion. By analyzing how different areas of the brain interact during persuasion, the talk will offer a deeper understanding of how emotional and rational elements are integrated in legal contexts.

This interdisciplinary approach—blending cognitive psychology with cutting-edge neuroscience—will provide a richer understanding of the mechanisms driving legal persuasion. The findings have the potential to influence how legal practitioners, policymakers, and educators approach the art of persuasion, ensuring that legal systems operate more equitably and effectively.

 

Friday, February 28, 2025

3:00 pm

Chrysler Hall North, 1163

All Welcome