Exploring Tunnel Vision: A Review of Errol Morris, A Wilderness of Error
16:2 Legal Ethics 390 (Winter 2013)
Posted: 2 Nov 2014 Last revised: 10 Nov 2014
Date Written: September 1, 2013
Abstract
This review of Errol Morris' book, A Wilderness of Error (2012), considers the notorious case of Jeffrey MacDonald, the army doctor who was convicted of the brutal slaying of his wife and two young daughters more than 40 years ago. Without taking a position on whether MacDonald is guilty or innocent, the review addresses Morris' contention that the government's representatives -- investigators and prosecutors alike -- engaged in a singular, relentless and unwavering pursuit of MacDonald's guilt, all the while ignoring or dismissing evidence that pointed to a contrary conclusion.
Keywords: Tunnel vision, confirmation bias, prosecutorial conduct, Jeffery MacDonald
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