About
Charles R. Nesson is the William F. Weld Professor of Law at Harvard Law School and founder of the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society. His academic work spans evidence law, constitutional law (particularly the Sixth Amendment), cyberlaw, and restorative justice. He has been a prominent legal advocate in landmark cases, including the Pentagon Papers and A Civil Action. Nesson’s research explores the intersection of law and technology, with projects like the Nymity initiative promoting pseudonymous discourse. He teaches courses on evidence, internet law, and jury systems, emphasizing critical thinking and societal impact. Notable contributions include advocating for open access in academia, spearheading the CyberOne virtual law course in Second Life, and advancing global internet governance frameworks. His work on restorative justice in Jamaica and environmental litigation against Chevron underscores his commitment to human rights and systemic reform. Nesson’s interdisciplinary approach bridges law, technology, and education, shaping contemporary legal discourse.
Research & Projects
- Berkman Klein Center: Pioneering internet policy research, including the Digital Media Project and Nymity ‘trustspace’ initiatives.
- Jamaica Project: Using technology to reform prison systems and promote justice in Jamaica.
- CyberOne: Innovative virtual legal education in Second Life, combining law and digital pedagogy.
- JuryX: Workshops exploring the American jury’s role in democracy and social change.
Key Themes
Nesson’s scholarship focuses on legal truth, the role of juries, and internet-driven societal transformation. He critiques systemic biases in legal processes while advocating for open access to knowledge and decentralized governance models. His interdisciplinary collaborations and public lectures address global challenges like digital civil rights and institutional adaptation to technology.
