Page 136 - Courting the Media Contemporary Perspectives on Media and Law

In: Courting the Media: Contemporary … ISBN: 978-1-61668-784-7
Editors: Geoffrey Sykes © 2010 Nova Science Publishers, Inc.

Chapter 7

MEDIA AS MATHEMATICS -

CALCULATING JUSTICE

Geoffrey Sykes

School of Social Sciences, Media and Communication,
University of Wollongong.

ABSTRACT

This chapter will inquire into understandings of mathematics in
relation to legal theory and practice. It will draw selectively from
historical scholarship, in particular the work of Fred Kort who used an
algorithmic methodology in a study about judicial behaviourism and
decision making. The historical perspective is a point of departure for a
contemporary theory of mathematics that is relevant and indeed essential
for an understanding of media-in-law practice. The chapter responds
indirectly to the challenge that information technology and digital media
have brought to professional and client practice that is rhetorical and
verbal in its communication and logic.

INTRODUCTION

It is not possible to write a comprehensive account of differing or
competing theories of mathematics-in-law. However the chapter does aim to
commence such a project, through reference to the writings of Roberta
Kevelson and her appropriation of the semiotic and scientific writings of