I just read an interesting article with the title “Rules for Radical Lawyers: Advancing the Abortion Rights of Inmates” by Mark Egerman of the National Abortion Federation. (See http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=1554401)
The article deals with an issue that has received a lot of attention in the literature. Many scholars have focused on the backlash caused by litigation designed to bring about social change and have argued that these litigation efforts may be counterproductive. Egerman’s article discusses this and, as the title of his article suggests, draws from the writings of Saul Alinsky and contends that, properly planned, litigation can be an effective way to bring about social change. He applies his model to the issue of reproductive rights in prisons.
Egerman’s effort is designed to advance “progressive” causes with a particular focus on abortion rights. His article is subject to criticism on many grounds. It is, however, an interesting read and provides useful information about the litigation strategies that led up to Roe v. Wade.
Richard M.