What Child Development Can Teach Us About the Purpose of Law
What would our legal system look like if it took seriously what we know about children’s needs, experiences, and perspectives? Drawing on research in psychology, economics, sociology, and other fields, this talk makes the case for a new approach to law: its core purpose should be to prioritize the interests of children—not simply in areas traditionally associated with children, such as education, juvenile justice, and child welfare, but across the legal system. Focusing on children can encourage earlier and more effective intervention, reveal risks that threaten people of all ages, promote greater attention to long-term consequences, and bring overlooked perspectives into public decision-making. Ultimately, putting children first offers a powerful framework for building a healthier, safer, fairer, and more prosperous society for everyone.
Speakers
Adam Benforado, Ph.D., Drexel University , United States