Brian Z. Tamanaha

Professor Brian Z. Tamanaha is a distinguished scholar in jurisprudence and law and society at Washington University School of Law. With over 75 publications, his work spans legal realism, rule of law, and legal pluralism, earning international acclaim.

• Education: Doctorate of Juridical Science (Harvard Law School), Juris Doctor (Boston University), Bachelor of Science (University of Oregon)

Research Interests: Focused on the intersection of legal theory, historical analysis, and societal impacts, Tamanaha’s scholarship critiques formalist approaches while exploring the evolution of legal systems across cultures.

Scientific Awards:

• 2019 IVR Book Prize
• 2018 Prose Awards Honorable Mention
• Dennis Leslie Mahoney Prize in Legal Theory (2006)
• Herbert Jacob Book Prize (2002)
• Special Recognition Award (1998, Law and Society Association)

Key Speaking Engagements: Cotterrell Lecture (2015), Kobe Memorial Lecture (2014), Julius Stone Address (2008), and multiple international keynote addresses.

Grants & Fellowships: Ferdinand Braudel Senior Fellowship (European University Institute), Institute for Advanced Study Membership (Princeton), and Visiting Professor Fellowship (Queen Mary University).