What Is Law?
Law is a system of rules that regulates behavior, and is enforced by governmental and social institutions. However, the precise definition of law has been debated. It has been called a science, an art, and even the “science of justice.” No matter what the precise definition is, it’s important to have a clear understanding of how the system works.
The Rule of Law
The concept of the Rule of Law has a long history, stretching as far back as ancient Greece. In recent years, the concept has become more widely discussed. Former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Anthony M. Kennedy, however, has stated that he does not remember hearing the term “rule of law” when he was in law school. Likewise, this writer did not encounter the term “rule of law” in law school when he was a student.
Its origins
History and law are intimately linked. Law uses history as a lens to view moral problems and as a means of proof in rendering judgment. Questions about law’s use of history are essential to its understanding. Enlightenment thinking helped create our present understanding of history and law.
Its evolution
Law’s evolution is a process that involves the evolution of a legal system. In order to make this process effective, we need to consider the objectives of law. For example, the rules and institutions of governance should be able to promote wealth creation.
Its impact on civil society
The law has a profound impact on civil society. Although much of civil society is private and organized by individuals, the flourishing of this sector contributes to the well-being of society as a whole. Organized civil society also focuses on public interests. Free societies are also characterized by organizations that fight against poverty and other social ills. Furthermore, free societies support these organizations by providing them with fiscal privileges.
Its critics
Critics of the Affordable Care Act have a common theme: the law will raise costs, stunt innovation, and reduce the quality of health care. The new law will also cause disruption to current insurance arrangements, and many jobs will be lost as a result. Critics also claim that the law violates the rights of conscience and unconstitutionally expands government power.
Its value
The law of value is an economic principle that governs the prices of products. This law originates from the terms of exchange between producers of different products. The law states that a producer cannot supply too much of a given product to sustain its own trading. As markets become more integrated, production norms emerge that determine the price of products. These norms are independent of the productivity of individual producers.