This presentation critiques the currently dominant models of criminal justice which focus on deterring wrongdoing by sanctions and punishment. Tyler suggests that a more effective and desirable model would focus on creating and maintaining the legitimacy of the law and legal authorities so that people would more voluntarily cooperate with the police and the courts. Research supporting this alternative perspective is presented.

Tom R. Tyler is a University Professor at New York University. He teaches in the psychology department and the law school. His research explores the dynamics of authority in groups, organizations, and societies. In particular, he examines the role of judgments about the justice or injustice of group procedures in shaping legitimacy, compliance and cooperation. He is the author of several books, including The social psychology of procedural justice (1988); Social justice in a diverse society (1997); Cooperation in groups (2000); Trust in the law (2002); and Why people obey the law (2006).Sponsored by Law, Psychology & Human Development