The Search for a Grand Unified Theory of Tort Law
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2017
Abstract
In Arthur Ripstein's new book "Private Wrongs," he argues that one simple idea accounts for all of tort's rights and remedies: no one is in charge of anyone else. In this review, I argue that Ripstein is wrong about that. I outline his account of tort, and then set out (some of) the details of the doctrine for which he has failed to account. I also argue that the ambition of Ripstein's book is misguided: we ought not expect simple explanations for complicated and contingent institutions, like tort. Nevertheless, I find lots to admire in Ripstein's book, and I recommend it to everyone who is interested in private law.
Recommended Citation
Hershovitz, Scott, "The Search for a Grand Unified Theory of Tort Law" (2017). Public Law & Legal Theory Working Papers. 320.
https://repository.law.umich.edu/pub_law_archive/320