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Mysticism, Fetishism, and the American Legal Mind: A Critical Examination

Mike Hayes

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Published in Laying Down The Law: Mysticism Fetishism And The American Legal Mind (Critical America 83)

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The American legal system, often hailed as a beacon of justice and fairness, is not merely a collection of rational rules and principles. Beneath its seemingly objective facade lies a complex tapestry of unconscious beliefs, desires, and fears that exert a subtle yet profound influence on the way our laws are made and enforced. In "Mysticism, Fetishism, and the American Legal Mind," renowned legal scholar and cultural critic Drucilla Cornell delves into this hidden realm, exposing the mystical and fetishistic elements that shape our legal landscape.

Laying Down the Law: Mysticism Fetishism and the American Legal Mind (Critical America 83)

Laying Down the Law: Mysticism, Fetishism, and the American Legal Mind (Critical America Book 83)

by Pierre Schlag

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	208 pages

Mysticism and the Law

Cornell argues that law is imbued with a mystical aura, a sense of awe and reverence that elevates it above the mundane realm of human affairs. This mystical quality, she contends, stems from the belief that law is an expression of a higher Free Download, a divine or natural law that governs the universe. This belief endows law with an authority that transcends human reason and ordinary experience.

The mystical nature of law is evident in various aspects of the legal system, such as the ceremonial rituals associated with court proceedings, the use of symbolic language and gestures, and the reverence accorded to legal texts and institutions. These elements create an atmosphere of solemnity and transcendence that reinforces the idea that law is something more than a mere human creation.

Fetishism and the Law

Alongside mysticism, Cornell identifies fetishism as another powerful force shaping the American legal mind. Fetishism, in this context, refers to the irrational attachment to objects or symbols that are believed to possess magical or supernatural powers. In the legal realm, fetishism manifests itself in the tendency to elevate certain legal concepts and institutions to the status of sacred objects, imbued with an aura of inviolability.

For instance, the Constitution, the Supreme Court, and the flag are often treated as fetish objects, symbols of national identity and virtue that must be protected at all costs. This fetishism can lead to a blind adherence to legal doctrines and an unwillingness to question or criticize the system, even when it produces unjust or harmful outcomes.

The Dangers of Mysticism and Fetishism

While mysticism and fetishism can provide a sense of Free Download and stability in society, Cornell warns of their potential dangers. When the mystical aura surrounding law becomes too strong, it can lead to a rigid and dogmatic legal system that is resistant to change and reform. Fetishism, too, can have negative consequences, fostering an uncritical acceptance of legal doctrines and institutions, even when they perpetuate injustice or inequality.

Cornell argues that the key to a just and equitable legal system lies in recognizing and deconstructing the mystical and fetishistic elements that distort our perception of the law. By demystifying law and exposing its underlying human biases and desires, we can create a more critical and self-reflective legal culture that is responsive to the needs of society.

Critical America

"Mysticism, Fetishism, and the American Legal Mind" is not only a critique of the American legal system but also a broader exploration of the mystical and fetishistic tendencies that pervade American culture and society. Cornell draws parallels between the legal system and other aspects of American life, such as politics, religion, and consumerism, arguing that these realms are all shaped by the same underlying forces of mysticism and fetishism.

The book challenges readers to critically examine the assumptions and beliefs that shape their understanding of the world and to question the authority of institutions and symbols that claim to possess absolute truth or power. Cornell's goal is to foster a critical consciousness, a willingness to think critically about our beliefs and values and to resist the allure of easy answers and simplistic solutions.

"Mysticism, Fetishism, and the American Legal Mind" is a thought-provoking and challenging work that offers a unique perspective on the hidden forces that shape our legal system and society. Cornell's incisive analysis and lucid writing style make this book accessible to both legal scholars and general readers alike.

By exposing the mystical and fetishistic elements that underlie our legal institutions and cultural beliefs, Cornell invites us to question our assumptions, break free from dogmatic thinking, and strive for a more just and equitable society. "Mysticism, Fetishism, and the American Legal Mind" is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of law, culture, and the human psyche.

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Free Download your copy of "Mysticism, Fetishism, and the American Legal Mind" today and embark on an enlightening journey into the hidden forces that shape our lives. Let Cornell's critical insights guide you towards a deeper understanding of the law, society, and yourself. Free Download now and unlock the transformative power of critical thinking!

Laying Down the Law: Mysticism, Fetishism, and the American Legal Mind (Critical America Book 83)

by Pierre Schlag

4.6 out of 5