Dr. Sara Gordon

Associate Professor

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Biography

Professor Gordon's work examines legal decision-making shaped not by laws and evidence, but by assumptions, conventional wisdom, and cognitive biases of the individuals making decisions. She is particularly interested in how judges and lawyers rely on outdated and unsupported ideas regarding mental health and human behavior, especially in light of advancing medical and psychological research. Her research investigates the lag of legal institutions behind advancements in these fields and the disconnect that leads to real consequences for people involved in the criminal justice system. Professor Gordon aims to educate legal professionals on the science of human behavior and mental health to improve decision-making within courts and legal settings. At the Allard School of Law, she teaches courses including Criminal Law, Evidence Law, Mental Health Law, and a seminar on Law and Psychology.

Research Interests

Experience

Associate Professor

— Present

Peter Allard School of Law • Vancouver, BC, Canada

Teaches and conducts research in criminal law, evidence, mental health law, and law psychology.

Courses

Criminal Law Evidence Law Mental Health Law Law Psychology

Requirements for University of British Columbia

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Philosophy or related field 3 credits in formal logic 6 credits at the upper level in history of philosophy 3 credits at the upper level in ethics or value theory 6 credits at the upper level in metaphysics, epistemology, or philosophy of science
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Writing sample (15-20 pages)
  • Statement of intent
  • Evidence of English language proficiency
Specialization Notes

Offers course-only and thesis routes. Focus areas include philosophy of science, mind, ethics, and Asian philosophy.