Judicial Scepticism

Question 1

When did Judicial scepticism begin?

Answer 1

• When people started to doubt there was any biblical foundation for witch hunting
• 1584: Reginald Scot’s ‘Discoverie of Witchcraft’ - initially questioned scriptural foundation for witch hunting
• Developed further by Thomas Ady in 1656

Question 2

Growth of Judicial Scepticism

Answer 2

• Continued to grow when certain cases appeared to be supported by fraudulent evidence
• Variety of fraudulent cases meant that judges became more sceptical of accusations
• Sir John Holt - presided over 12 WC trials and found all accused innocent , put emphasis on needing firm proof

Question 3

How did Judicial Scepticism change belief in WC?

Answer 3

• Actions of judges crucial in ending hunts
• Due to higher standards of evidence, trials became more impossible as it was difficult to prove
• 1736 - 1604 WC act overturned, wouldn’t have happened without willingness of judges to acquit
• Judges after 1660 willing to be activist with scepticism
• John Holt significant in that he revealed dramatic change in attitude of the judge in particular - his predecessor was willing to admit any evidence

Question 4

How did Judicial Scepticism no change belief in WC?

Answer 4

• Judges unable to control social attitudes
• Long term issue of WC belief among illiterate classes remained - John & Ruth Osborne killed by mob accusing them of WC but ringleader was convicted of murder (shows reason and rationality)