Law is the set of rules that govern human societies. It shapes politics, economics, history and society in many different ways and serves as a mediator of relations between people. Laws can be written or tacit, formal or informal, public or private. They may be enforceable by a variety of mechanisms, including sanctions and prosecution. The law influences social change in various ways and imposes restrictions and limitations on people, including those relating to property. Law is the most fundamental aspect of a government, but it also applies to businesses and other entities.
The nature of laws varies widely from place to place, reflecting the cultural and historical backgrounds of each nation. Nevertheless, the four principal functions of law are establishing standards, maintaining order, resolving disputes, and protecting liberties and rights. Some governments do a better job of serving these purposes than others. For example, an authoritarian regime may keep the peace and maintain the status quo, but it will probably oppress minorities or political opponents. A democratic regime, on the other hand, will usually serve its citizens well by promoting freedoms and protecting individual rights.
A variety of legal theories have been developed, reflecting the different approaches to this essential and complex topic. John Austin, for instance, developed the utilitarian view that law consists of commands, backed by threat of punishment, issued by a sovereign who has the habit of obedience from his subjects. Jean-Jacques Rousseau, on the other hand, argued that natural law is based on universal principles of right and wrong and cannot be changed. These two views continue to inform the discussion of law in modern times.
Legal practice reflects the many aspects of law that exist in a nation. For instance, contract law regulates agreements to exchange goods or services between people and encompasses a variety of styles of contracts. Tort law addresses injury to persons and property, whether by automobile accidents or defamation. Criminal law addresses offenses against the state and, in turn, a country’s constitution and laws.
The development of law is influenced by the way governments are organized and the balance of power between the legislature, executive and judiciary branches. The law is also shaped by the culture of a nation, including its traditions and philosophies. In addition, the law is influenced by religion and the philosophy of the human mind. For a more detailed discussion of these topics, see the articles on constitutional law; civil law; common law; and international law. Also, for a discussion of legal ethics and philosophy, see law, philosophy of.