The Theory and Practice of Statutory Interpretation

In a new book by our too-modest co-ELS blogger, Frank Cross (Texas) offers a rare empirical  assessment of competing theories of judicial statutory interpretation. Frank's book, The Theory and Practice of Statutory Interpretation (Stanford Press), finds that "at least some presumptions of the theoreticians appear to be wrong. No theory is exempt from the risk of ideological willful judging, and pragmatism is the theory that was associated with the least outcome orientation."

Praise for Frank's book includes the following from Richard Pierce (GWU). "Cross's findings, based on careful empiricism, provide a welcome contrast with the often overwrought claims of many prolific proponents of particular interpretative methodologies. The important contribution to the field will be of value both for teaching and for research."

Comments

[David Stras]

Congratulations on your new book, Frank.