The Life and Work of the Most Eminent Woman in 20th-Century Psychology

Reviews the book, Do Justice and Let the Sky Fall: Elizabeth F. Loftus and Her Contributions to Science, Law, and Academic Freedom edited by Maryanne Garry and Harlene Hayne (see record 2006-20939-000). According to McNally, eminent psychologists contribute in different ways to the study of the mind. Some devise new experimental methods, others produce conceptual breakthroughs, and still others apply basic research to pressing social issues. A handful manage to do all three. One psychologist who has done all three is Elizabeth F. Loftus. She has devised new ways to study memory, has transformed our understanding of memory's fallibilities, and has positively influenced how the legal system regards matters ranging from eyewitness testimony to reports of repressed and recovered memories of trauma. She was listed among the most eminent of 20th-century psychologists in a recent study, and she was the highest-ranking woman on the list. This book of essays under review concerns her life and work. Some chapters are deftly written, state-of-the-art summaries of research domains either launched or inspired by Loftus's work, whereas others are personal accounts written by her friends and colleagues. Loftus's work has had a profound effect on the legal system. McNally notes that the chapters deftly summarizing cutting-edge research are a strength of this book. And the personal chapters are the most engaging. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2007 APA, all rights reserved)