Case Study: Applying Jurisprudence

The legal theories outlined in this module are “about” jurisprudence. The following hypothetical involves “doing” jurisprudence, as opposed to simply theorizing about important legal questions. Use the hypothetical situation and the questions posed afterward to answer the jurisprudential question of whether cannibalism is ever legally justified.

Note: If you cannot access the interaction shown below, you can click here to acess a text-based version the same information in a new window.

Note: After you read the three questions posted below, you will continue on to the next course page (where you will post your answers to the questions in three discussion board posts).

Based on the facts:

1. How do you predict that each of the justices (except Fall) will vote based on his or her legal philosophy?
2. What do you think the legislative purpose of the murder statute is and how do you think that purpose would affect each judge’s vote?
3. Are there any moral exceptions to the application of the statute, like “Self-defense,” or “Necessity?”