Argumentation Nov 2011 Open Access

The Unchangeable Judicial Formats

Paul van den Hoven Utrecht University

Abstract

An analysis of a broad sample of Dutch judicial and semi-judicial decisions shows similar structures as the ones Bhatia and Mazzi found before. The question is posed what explains this seemingly unchangeable judicial format. From a perspective of argumentative and communicative efficacy and comprehensibility, the format is certainly not the optimal choice. The explanation is that the format is a sign of an ideology. The format suggests an objectivity of the decision taken. This is actually a myth. This makes a decision to change the format an ideological one.

Journal
Argumentation
Published
2011-11-01
DOI
10.1007/s10503-011-9229-4
CompPile
Open Access
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