Professor Dan Simon of USC Gould School of Law approaches the complex realm of criminal justice with a unique perspective, blending insights from law and psychology. With a joint appointment between the law school and USC’s psychology department, Simon teaches courses on criminal law, law and psychology, and mass incarceration as the Richard L. and Maria B. Crutcher Professor of Law and Psychology. His academic focus lies in understanding the psychological underpinnings of decision-making within the justice system — a topic he describes as both enlightening and deeply challenging.
Simon’s journey into this interdisciplinary field began with a fascination for how judges, jurors, and prosecutors reach decisions. His research has revealed troubling patterns of error in these processes, contributing to false convictions and acquittals. Over time, however, his attention shifted to the broader issue of punishment itself, particularly the phenomenon of mass incarceration.
“The U.S. punishes excessively — more than any other democracy in the world,” Simon notes, pointing out that the nation’s incarceration rate is five to 10 times higher than that of European or Scandinavian countries. Moreover, the methods of punishment, including life sentences without parole and capital punishment, further distinguish the U.S. from its peers. These practices, he argues, raise profound questions about the role of justice in society.
Despite the grim realities of mass incarceration, Simon finds reason for cautious optimism. His research into the psychology of punishment reveals that punitive attitudes are not monolithic. “Even when people lean toward punitive reactions, there’s often a latent counter-sentiment — a willingness to understand the situational causes of crime,” he explains. By shifting the discourse to address these underlying factors, Simon believes it’s possible to cultivate a less punitive and more humane justice system.
Simon’s current projects include a book exploring the psychological dimensions of punishment and experimental studies examining why societies adopt punitive policies. He emphasizes the need to challenge entrenched attitudes about crime and justice, beginning with education. “Awareness is the first step,” he says, “but it’s equally important to encourage action.”
For Simon, teaching at USC Gould offers an ideal platform to inspire change. He hopes his students leave with not only an awareness of systemic issues but also the determination to address them. “There’s no better place than an elite law school to tackle these fundamental societal questions,” he affirms.
Watch the full interview with Professor Simon to learn more about his groundbreaking work and vision for the future of criminal justice.
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