The Center for Law and the Human Person hosted its 4th Annual Spring Symposium, titled “Now We Know that the Law is Good”: On Law and Virtue, in the Walter A. Slowinski Courtroom at Catholic Law, according to a March 31 announcement.
The symposium addressed how legal frameworks intersect with moral character and virtue. This topic is significant as it explores how law not only shapes society but also depends on ethical foundations to maintain justice and democracy.
Professor Elizabeth Kirk, Co-Director of the Center for Law and the Human Person, welcomed attendees by reflecting on the theme. She drew inspiration from Giotto’s allegorical frescoes of virtues in Padua’s Scrovegni Chapel to emphasize “the enduring connection between legal frameworks and the moral character they shape and require.”
Mary Ann Glendon, Learned Hand Professor of Law Emerita at Harvard University and former U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See, delivered the keynote lecture titled “The Rule of Law and Legal Excellence: How Much Should We Worry?”. Glendon said her address focused on “the ideals of judicial impartiality, the rule of law, and the moral responsibilities of legal professionals.” She traced historical perspectives from American Founders to Tocqueville while noting current challenges facing legal ethics. Glendon urged participants to consider “the reciprocal relationship between law and culture” as well as “the need for revitalizing civic virtues and institutions to sustain democracy.” She stressed that reforming personal character is essential.
In addition to public lectures, early career scholars who wrote papers about law and virtue participated in private sessions with senior scholars Stephanie Barclay (Georgetown), David Crawford (John Paul II Institute), Rick Garnett (Notre Dame), and Michael Moreland (Villanova) for commentary, discussion, and fellowship.
A recording of Glendon’s keynote lecture was made available following the event.
