Quasirational models of sentencing

Article

Dhami, M., Belton, I. and Goodman-Delahunty, J. 2015. Quasirational models of sentencing. Journal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition. 4 (3), pp. 239-247. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jarmac.2014.07.009
TypeArticle
TitleQuasirational models of sentencing
AuthorsDhami, M., Belton, I. and Goodman-Delahunty, J.
Abstract

Cognitive continuum theory points to the middle-ground between the intuitive and analytic modes of cognition, called quasirationality. In the context of sentencing, we discuss how legal models prescribe the use of different modes of cognition. These models aim to help judges perform the cognitive balancing act required between factors indicating a more or less severe penalty for an offender. We compare sentencing in three common law jurisdictions (i.e., Australia, the US, and England and Wales). Each places a different emphasis on the use of intuition and analysis; but all are quasirational. We conclude that the most appropriate mode of cognition will likely be that which corresponds best with properties of the sentencingtask. Finally, we discuss the implications of this cognition-task correspondence approach for researchers and legal policy-makers.

KeywordsDual processes, quasirationality, intuition, analysis, sentencing, judicial decision-making
PublisherElsevier
JournalJournal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition
ISSN2211-3681
Publication dates
Online04 Aug 2014
Print01 Sep 2015
Publication process dates
Deposited12 May 2015
Submitted01 Jan 2014
Accepted28 Jul 2014
Output statusPublished
Publisher's version
License
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jarmac.2014.07.009
LanguageEnglish
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