Just Mercy Socratic Seminar Questions (AT - 18 pts)
Directions: Compose three thoughtful and original questions that encourage higher order thinking
(Levels 4-6). The goal of these questions is to probe for deeper meaning, insightful connections, realwork applications, and sophistication of thought.
1. Compose your question and identify its level.
2. Provide a thorough response of your own.
3. Provide evidence from Just Mercy and relevant supplementary texts / media.
Scoring: The point values are in parenthesis beside each item.
Due date: Thursday, 1/26 @ 7:40 AM
Deadlines: Unexcused assignments WILL NOT be accepted after the deadline.
➔ PD2: Thursday, 1/26 @ 8:38 AM
➔ PD3: Thursday, 1/26 @ 9:45 AM
➔ PD6: Thursday, 1/26 @ 1:00 PM
Question 1
Type your question (2 pts): How does the relationship between Bryan Stevenson and McMillian
evolve in these chapters, and what does it reveal about the impact of the justice system on
individuals and their families?
Identify the level of your question: Level 4
Type the answer to your question here. Your answer should demonstrate deeper meaning, insightful
connections, real-work applications, and sophistication of thought, etc (2 pts):
● As the story progresses, we see the relationship between the two men evolve from that of
attorney and client to one of deep friendship and trust. This evolution is a reflection of the
emotional toll that the criminal justice system can take on those caught in its web.
● It is through Stevenson's unwavering belief in McMillian's innocence and his tireless efforts
to prove it that McMillian begins to regain a sense of hope.
● Furthermore, this relationship also illustrates the impact of the criminal justice system on
the families of the accused. McMillian's wife, Minnie McMillian, is depicted as being
heavily affected by her husband's false imprisonment, and the stress of the situation takes a
toll on her health. The relationship between Bryan and McMillian shows how the justice
Just Mercy Socratic Seminar Questions (AT - 18 pts)
system can have a ripple effect on not just the accused, but also their families, friends, and
community.
Provide the specific evidence from the anchor text and relevant supplementary texts / media (2 pts):
● "I had come to know Minnie McMillian well over the years, and I had seen the emotional
toll that her husband's wrongful conviction and death sentence had taken on her. She had
been diagnosed with hypertension, and her health was fragile." (Chapter 10)
● "The state's case against Walter McMillian had been built on lies, and the prosecution had
used the testimony of a known liar to secure a conviction and death sentence." (Chapter 12)
Question 2
Type your question: What are the ethical implications of Bryan Stevenson's actions in "Just
Mercy" and how do they compare to the actions of other characters in the book?
Identify the level of your question: Level 5
Type the answer to your question here. Your answer should demonstrate deeper meaning, insightful
connections, real-work applications, and sophistication of thought, etc:
● Throughout the book, Stevenson is depicted as someone who is deeply committed to his
clients, often going above and beyond what is expected of him as an attorney. He does not
shy away from difficult cases, even when the odds are stacked against him, and he is willing
to put his own reputation and safety on the line to ensure that his clients receive a fair trial.
This level of commitment raises ethical questions about the role of representation and the
responsibilities of legal professionals to advocate for their clients, even when it may be
uncomfortable or unpopular to do so.
● Throughout the book, Stevenson is shown working tirelessly to uncover the truth and to
challenge the biases that lead to wrongful convictions. He is depicted as someone who is not
afraid to question the status quo and to challenge the assumptions that lead to injustice.
This raises ethical questions about the responsibility of individuals to speak out against
injustice and to challenge societal prejudices.
● For example, many of the other characters in the book, including some members of the
legal system, are depicted as being complicit in the perpetuation of injustice or as being
indifferent to the plight of marginalized individuals. In contrast, Stevenson's actions are
driven by a sense of moral responsibility and a deep commitment to justice.
Provide the specific evidence from the anchor text and relevant supplementary texts / media:
Just Mercy Socratic Seminar Questions (AT - 18 pts)
● "I had to fight against the assumptions and stereotypes that led to his conviction. I had to
challenge the legal system's decision." (Chapter 7)
● "I had to expose the truth and challenge the prejudices that led to his wrongful
conviction." (Chapter 8)
Question 3
Type your question: How can the use of unreliable evidence be prevented in criminal trials?
Identify the level of your question: Level 6
Type the answer to your question here. Your answer should demonstrate deeper meaning, insightful
connections, real-work applications, and sophistication of thought, etc:
● The prevention of unreliable evidence in criminal trials is a complex issue that requires a
multifaceted approach, involving both systemic changes and individual actions.
● One way to prevent the use of unreliable evidence in criminal trials is to reform and
improve the process of evidence collection, storage, and analysis. This can include
implementing strict protocols for the collection and preservation of evidence, as well as the
use of advanced technologies such as DNA analysis to ensure the integrity and reliability of
evidence.
● Another way to prevent the use of unreliable evidence in criminal trials is to improve the
training and education of legal professionals, including prosecutors, defense attorneys, and
judges, to recognize and counteract bias and prejudice in their work. This can include
providing training on the psychological and social factors that can lead to the use of
unreliable evidence, as well as providing education on the use of advanced analytical
techniques and technologies to ensure the reliability of evidence.
● Additionally, improving transparency and accountability within the legal system is crucial
in preventing the use of unreliable evidence in criminal trials. This can include
implementing measures such as open-file discovery, and making the results of forensic
examinations and other scientific evidence available to both prosecution and defense.
Provide the specific evidence from the anchor text and relevant supplementary texts / media:
● There is not really any point in the book that talk about ways to prevent unreliable
evidence (besides countering with stronger evidence as done in the book) but here are some
points by Stevenson advocating such a system
Just Mercy Socratic Seminar Questions (AT - 18 pts)
● "We have to be willing to confront the reality of injustice and inequality if we hope to
change things. We need a system that is transparent, accountable, and fair" (Chapter 10)
● "The right to a fair trial is a fundamental right that must be protected. The defense counsel
is the only person in the courtroom who is there to advocate for the accused" (Chapter 11)