Cancel culture hinders empathy in law schools.

The journey through law school has evolved into a complex path, more so now than in previous generations. This is particularly true for students from diverse backgrounds.

In the early stages of their education, they’re introduced to the basics of Canadian law, encompassing contracts, constitutional, and criminal law.

This traditional approach, however, undergoes a shift in the second year, transitioning from theory-heavy learning to a more interactive, seminar-based model. Despite the openness encouraged by these seminars, a noticeable silence often prevails in classrooms.

The Silence in the Classroom

One key factor contributing to this silence could be the fear of judgment, a phenomenon amplified in the age of social media. Students often remain reticent, speaking only to fulfill participation requirements.

This reluctance stems from various reasons. Some students may not feel prepared due to insufficient reading, while others might dread public speaking. A significant concern, however, is the fear of saying something unintentionally offensive. This fear of being ‘cancelled’ in a social context is a major barrier to open discussion and learning.

The Role of Empathy in Law

Empathy is an essential trait for successful lawyers. It allows a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives shaped by race, religion, gender, and socioeconomic status. Interestingly, there’s a misconception that inquiring about someone’s background is insensitive or even racist.

In reality, these questions, when asked out of genuine curiosity, can be an opportunity for shared learning and understanding. Law classrooms should be safe spaces for exploring these topics, as they are foundational to developing critical thinking and analytical skills.

Cancel Culture and Legal Education

The impact of diversity in the legal profession is palpable, especially for minority students. Diversity in law firms contributes to a more inclusive legal system, bringing various perspectives to the table.

Law schools play a crucial role in this by encouraging open intellectual conversations. This approach helps in nurturing lawyers who are not just well-versed in statutes and case law but are also critical thinkers and problem solvers.

There’s a call to action for students and educators to embrace discomfort in the pursuit of knowledge. Conforming to the status quo or succumbing to social pressure limits the scope of learning and personal growth.

The legal profession, known for its far-reaching influence, demands a culture of healthy disagreement and respect for diverse opinions. This approach fosters intellectual growth and prepares students for real-world challenges.

The Role of Educators in Shaping Dialogue

The responsibility of nurturing an environment conducive to open dialogue largely falls on law school educators. In today’s educational landscape, the challenge is to balance safety with the encouragement of free speech.

The fear of cancel culture often hampers the learning process, preventing students from engaging in meaningful discussions and learning from their mistakes.

Educators must strive to create a learning environment that supports the development of strong, well-rounded individuals prepared to contribute significantly to society.

Do you agree that cancel culture hinders empathy?

Author: Elara Kingston, Law Student, Toronto