This book is unique in that it tries to gain insight into the frame of mind of
jurists in civil law. To this end, it explores eight typical characteristics
of argument and reasoning in civil law. All characteristics contribute to
revealing the enigma of the frame of mind, not through step-by-step deduction
that is simply impossible but through experiments of an intuitive,
exploratory, or even cubist nature. Each chapter describes one such
experiment.
In conclusion, a new way of argument and reasoning in civil law is advocated:
less dogmatic, more international, more open to balancing the interests and
values at stake, and also more willing to integrate socio-legal and legal
economic insights and arguments. In his conclusion, the author joins in the
world-wide discussion on improving the academic quality of legal science, and
on its far-reaching consequences for the curricula of law schools everywhere.
Every civil law scholar practitioner or lawyer who sometimes feels the need to
reflect his daily work should read this book. In a very easy and engaging
style it opens new, surprising perspectives on dealing with civil law.
