Against Digital Superstition: On the Pseudoscientific Development of the Sociology of Law in China

Abstract

This article examines the current state of the sociology of law in China, which is characterized by pervasive digital superstition and a “scientific turn” towards quantitative methods. The article traces the historical development of the field, critically assesses the impact of digital technologies on sociolegal research, and scrutinizes the underlying causes of digital superstition, including academic incentives, technological advancements, and state control over data. In response to these issues, the article proposes alternative approaches to conducting sociolegal research in the era of digitalization, such as video observation and online ethnography, highlighting the significance of storytelling. The article advocates for a balanced and reflective approach to digitalization in Chinese sociology of law, emphasizing the potential for meaningful advancements in the field when digital technologies are employed judiciously and responsibly.