Elizabeth Loftus – Hero Or Villain?
Elizabeth Loftus is one of the most well known and influential Psychologists. She has been admired
and revered for her pioneering research into the accuracy of eyewitness testimony. Over recent
years, however, her popularity has waned as high-profile legal teams defending sexual abusers have
paid for her services to discredit and call into question the accounts of the victims and accusers.
Below is a wealth of resources highlighting the importance of Loftus’ work and the ways it has been
used in many recent trials.
You need to work through the clips and articles and decide whether you think Elizabeth Loftus is a
Hero or a Villain.
When you have completed your research, you need to write a piece which may be posted on the
Psychology Blog presenting your argument and citing the evidence.
Include:
An introduction to Loftus and her research
The important role she has played and the benefits she has brought to the justice system
The potential dangers of the use of her research and theories for victims
A conclusion as to which one you believe outweighs the other
You will have one and a half lessons and homework time to complete.
Resources
Links highlighting the importance of Loftus’ work:
Elizabeth Loftus - Ted Talk
https ://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-SBTRLoPuo Eye Witness Testimony Part 1
