"Science and the Legitimate Argumentative Space of International Courts"
Scientific knowledge pervades environmental disputes in several ways, which poses challenges for courts in crafting a convincing reasoning that closely reflects on the technical facts of the case, and at the same time, fits with the epistemic competence of judges. The presentation will map the epistemically legitimate argumentative space available for judges by identifying four main forms of reasoning in international environmental adjudication, namely scientific, legal, intuitive and hybrid reasoning styles. The talk will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these reasoning methods for securing the legitimacy of the judgment, and will offer parameters which help judges select the appropriate (epistemically legitimate) reasoning style in particular cases.
For participation in person we ask for a binding registration by e-mail to voelkerrecht(at)uni-graz.at until 09.11.2022. No separate registration is required to follow the discussion via livestream.