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Case Studies of Famous Trials and the Construction of Guilt and Innocence

Case Studies of Famous Trials and the Construction of Guilt and Innocence

Author: Caroline Gorden; Christopher Birkbeck
Publisher: Bristol University Press
ISBN: 9781529203677
Published In: April 2022
Format: Paperback
Jurisdiction: U.K. ? Disclaimer:
Countri(es) stated herein are used as reference only

HKD 372.27

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Description
Contents

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From the trials of Oscar Pistorius to O.J. Simpson and Michael Jackson, this innovative book provides a critical review of 11 high profile criminal cases. These case studies examine how 'guilt' and 'innocence' are constructed in the courts and in wider society, using the themes of evidence and narratives; credibility; rhetoric and oratory in the court room; social status; vulnerability and false confessions; diminished responsibility and the media and social judgments.

exercises to extend thinking on each case
recommended readings for studying the cases and concepts discussed in each chapter
an extensive specialist reference list including web links to videos and transcripts pertaining to many of the cases discussed in the book

The book delivers an accessible examination of the criminological, sociological, psychological and legal processes underpinning the outcome of criminal cases, and their representation in the media and wider society.

Introduction

1. The Death of Caylee Marie Anthony

2. Storytelling in the Trial of James Hanratty

3. Consistency and Inconsistency in Stories: The Case of Dr Crippen

4. The Role of Credibility and Believability in the Trial of Rosemary West

5. Techniques of Neutralisation and the Conviction of the Oklahoma Bomber, Timothy McVeigh

6. Language Style and Persuasion in the Criminal Trial of O.J. Simpson

7. Social Geometry and the Acquittal of Michael Jackson

8. The Role of Vulnerability in the Alleged False Confession and Subsequent Conviction of Brendan Dassey

9. The Defence of Diminished Responsibility and the Trial of Peter Sutcliffe

10. The 'Reasonable Person' (and Common Sense) in the Trial of Oscar Pistorius the Shooting of Reeva Steenkamp

11. Amanda Knox's Trial in the Media