Generative AI as a Scholarly Tool
Suffolk University Law Dean Andrew Perlman, a noted expert in law and technology, recently employed ChatGPT to co-author an article that explores how generative AI could transform legal scholarship. In his December 26 piece titled “Generative AI and the Future of Legal Scholarship,” Perlman asked ChatGPT to devise a novel perspective on the future of legal research, focusing on the potential uses of AI by legal scholars. The article, now available on the Social Science Research Network, exemplifies the growing interest in AI’s role in academia.
Perlman Praises AI’s Scholarly Potential
Perlman highlighted the sophistication and creativity exhibited by ChatGPT, equating its output to that of a competent legal scholar. The article suggests that AI can uncover trends in judicial reasoning, legislative behavior, and administrative actions that might escape human notice. Furthermore, AI could facilitate the generation of new arguments, brainstorm counterarguments, and test hypothetical scenarios more efficiently than human researchers.
AI Enhances, Not Replaces, Human Judgment
The article emphasizes that generative AI could integrate various analytical methods, such as empirical legal studies and economic modeling, to offer a more comprehensive analysis. Despite these advancements, Perlman and ChatGPT concurred that AI will not replace law professors. Instead, human judgment and ethical oversight will remain essential in curating and guiding AI-generated insights.
A Broader Implication for Legal Education
Perlman concluded that the future of legal scholarship lies in the hands of those who can merge human wisdom with artificial intelligence. By doing so, tomorrow’s legal thought leaders will redefine the boundaries of scholarly achievement, leveraging AI to enhance the depth and breadth of legal research and analysis.
