Mark Perlmutter's 1998 book, Why Lawyers (and the rest of us) Lie & Engage in Other Repugnant Behavior, takes on our bashing, adversarial culture, epitomized by the Americal Civil Justice system. As readers explore its unremitting hostility and deception, they learn that the legal system itself is merely an exemplar of a profound defect in our national character --- a lack of courage to confront the dark side that exists in all of us. Unchecked, this dark side runs amok, embroiling us in shrill, unproductive conflict, which in turn creates a spiral of alienation and distrust. But Why Lawyers Lie does not just identify the problem; with humor and insight it unearths the underlying causes and provides solutions. It is a book for anyone weary of unproductive conflict, be they litigants, lawyers, professionals, or observers and participants in politics and business.

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REVIEWS OF WHY LAWYERS LIE

In attempting to introduce the principles of community into the practice of law in our ever increasingly adversarial society, Mark Perlmutter is a courageous prophet and a man of healing. His vision is deperately needed. M. Scott Peck, M.D., Best-selling author of The Road Less Traveled

I greatly enjoyed Why Lawyers Lie...I fully embrace [the] view that the need for cooperative behavior, based on trust, is a superior alternative to win-lose adversarial relationships. Mark G. Yudof, Chancellor of the University of Texas System and Former Dean of the University of Texas School of Law

...for those persons who are genuinely concerned about the profession and the way it often acts, this book can be a valuable contribution, if not prescription. Sherman Cohn, Prof. of Law, Georgetown University; Former President of the American Inns of Court

Through fascinating behind-the-scenese stories and unflinching self revelation, Mark Perlmutter takes us deep into a culture that places persuasion and manipulation far above cooperation and collaboration. Yet this book is not just about the legal profession; it's about the power and possibility of openness and authenticity for all of us, whether in a courtroom, an office building, or our own living rooms. Dave Potter, President 3D, Inc., organizational consulting firm