Research Handbook on the Economics of Torts

This pioneering Handbook contains original, specially commissioned chapters on tort law from the leading experts in the field. The chapters present a rigorous, in-depth analysis of the most current issues from a variety of perspectives - including theoretical economics, empirical legal studies, psychology and socio-law - and offer important insights for the future of tort scholarship. Focusing on issues of vital importance to those seeking to understand and reform the tort system, this volume takes a multi-disciplinary approach, including theoretical economic analysis, empirical analysis, socio-economic analysis, and behavioral analysis of liability rules and the litigation process. Topics discussed include products liability, medical malpractice, causation, proximate cause, joint and several liability, class actions, mass torts, vicarious liability, settlement, damage rules, juries, tort reform, and potential alternatives to the tort system. Scholars, students, law practitioners, regulators, judges and economists with an interest in tort law, litigation, damages, and reform will find this seminal Handbook an invaluable addition to their libraries.