Jens David Ohlin

Jens David Ohlin is a legal scholar and academic who serves as Dean and Professor of Law at Cornell Law School. His primary areas of expertise include international law, criminal law, and the laws of war. Ohlin's research and publications have focused extensively on international criminal law, examining topics such as conspiracy liability, joint criminal enterprise, and the theoretical foundations of international criminal justice. He has written several influential books including "The Assault on International Law" (Oxford University Press) and "Defending Humanity: When Force is Justified and Why" (co-authored with George Fletcher). As a leading voice in international legal theory, Ohlin has contributed significantly to debates surrounding targeted killing, cyber warfare, and the intersection of criminal law with armed conflict. His work regularly appears in top law journals and he frequently provides expert commentary on international legal matters. Ohlin holds a J.D. from Columbia Law School and a Ph.D. in philosophy from Columbia University. Prior to his role at Cornell, he served as a law clerk on the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.

Readers highlight Ohlin's ability to break down complex international law concepts into understandable terms. His academic works receive consistent praise from law students and practitioners for their clear explanations of difficult legal theories. What readers liked: - Clear writing style that makes international law accessible - Balanced analysis of controversial legal topics - Thorough research and citations - Practical examples that illustrate theoretical concepts What readers disliked: - Some find the academic tone dry - Occasional repetition of key points - High price point of academic texts Ratings across platforms: - Amazon: Average 4.3/5 across books (limited reviews due to academic nature) - Goodreads: "The Assault on International Law" - 4.0/5 (18 ratings) A law student reviewer noted: "Ohlin presents complex legal frameworks clearly without oversimplifying." Another reader commented: "His analysis of international criminal law is thorough but could be more concise."

The Assault on International Law (2015) Examines how critics have challenged the foundations and legitimacy of international law in the post-9/11 era.

Defending Humanity: When Force is Justified and Why (2008) Analyzes the legal and moral framework for humanitarian intervention and the use of military force in international conflicts.

Targeted Killings: Law and Morality in an Asymmetrical World (2012) Explores the legal, ethical, and strategic dimensions of targeted killing programs in modern warfare.

Research Handbook on Remote Warfare (2017) Examines the legal implications of conducting warfare through remote and autonomous weapons systems.

Criminal Law: Doctrine, Application, and Practice (2016) Presents core principles and practical applications of criminal law for legal practitioners and students.

The Oxford Handbook of International Criminal Law (2020) Provides comprehensive coverage of international criminal law's key concepts, theories, and practical applications.

Philippe Sands writes extensively on international law and human rights, focusing on war crimes and international justice. His work combines legal scholarship with historical investigation, particularly in books like "East West Street" which explores the origins of international criminal law.

Harold Koh served as Legal Adviser to the U.S. State Department and writes on international law and national security. His work examines how international law interacts with domestic legal systems and addresses contemporary challenges in warfare and human rights.

Mary Ellen O'Connell specializes in international law and the use of force, with particular focus on drone warfare and military necessity. Her research explores the legal frameworks governing armed conflict and international dispute resolution.

David Luban analyzes the philosophical foundations of international criminal law and legal ethics. His work examines the moral basis of international humanitarian law and the role of lawyers in human rights advocacy.

William Schabas focuses on international criminal law and human rights law, particularly concerning genocide and capital punishment. His research provides detailed analysis of international courts and tribunals, including the International Criminal Court and its predecessors.