New Books in Law Alexander Lian, "Stereoscopic Law: Oliver Wendell Holmes and Legal Education" (Cambridge UP, 2020)
Jul 13, 2025
Alexander Lian, a practicing commercial litigator in Miami and author of Stereoscopic Law, delves into the revolutionary impact of Oliver Wendell Holmes on legal education. He discusses Holmes' landmark essay, 'The Path of the Law,' advocating for a three-dimensional understanding of law that bridges theory and practice. The conversation also highlights the concept of the 'bad man' as a crucial heuristic for law students. Lian emphasizes the historical context of legal doctrines and Holmes' ongoing relevance in shaping legal philosophy and ethics today.
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Path Of The Law Is About Teaching
- Holmes' essay "The Path of the Law" centers on legal education rather than pure jurisprudence.
- Alexander Lian argues Holmes intended to teach lawyers how to think, not just theorize about law.
Stereoscope As A Legal Lens
- The stereoscope metaphor unifies two close perspectives into a fuller, three-dimensional understanding.
- Lian shows Holmes used history plus analysis to create deeper legal vision, like a stereoscopic view.
Three-Dimensional Legal Thinking
- A three-dimensional approach combines historical development and philosophical analysis to explain present doctrine.
- Holmes urged lawyers to study a rule's past and evolution before attempting reform or application.
