John Thorlin

John Thorlin is an Assistant Professor of Law at the University of Arkansas School of Law. His work combines quantitative analysis and law-and-economics approaches to explore intersections between law and politics, with a focus on constitutional law, national security law, and administrative law.

• Education: J.D., Harvard Law School (2012); B.A., Harvard University (2009), cum laude in Engineering Sciences, with a language citation in Russian.

Thorlin’s research examines how mutual defense treaties shape presidential war powers, critiques originalist interpretations of the Free Exercise Clause, and analyzes federal rulemaking challenges like climate change discount rates. His publications often bridge empirical rigor with constitutional theory.

Recent work includes evaluating national security frameworks, judicial review standards, and systemic barriers to racial diversity in law firms. He also contributes to Second Amendment debates through historical and linguistic analysis.

Scientific Awards:

• Third place, Astral Codex Ten's 2024 Book Review Competition

Thorlin’s prior roles include attorney at the Central Intelligence Agency and senior counsel positions in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. He served as an adjunct professor at Georgetown University Law Center (2017–2023) and presented at symposia on topics like originalist jurisprudence and military strategy.