Law is a set of rules and guidelines created by social or governmental institutions to control human behavior and keep society in order. Its precise definition is a matter of ongoing debate, with different schools of thought offering their own takes on the concept.
A common view is that law provides a framework to ensure peace in society by controlling the activities of its members, and by punishing those who break the rules. Law combines both social, ethical and moral considerations with a practical approach to solving problems, aiming to create a balance between social interests and the needs of individuals.
As law can encompass a huge variety of subjects, there are numerous branches of the discipline. Tort law, for example, deals with compensation when people or their property are harmed, whether by an automobile accident or defamation of character. Alternatively, crimes against the state and its citizens are dealt with by criminal law. Other areas of law include contract law, which defines how people can exchange goods and services, and property law, which defines an individual’s rights and duties toward tangible and intangible possessions. In addition, labour law governs the tripartite industrial relationship between worker, employer and trade union, while administrative law concerns the rules that judges must follow in deciding cases.
The idea of law has changed over time, reflecting the development of different societies and their ideas about what should be legal or not. Some philosophers have offered their views on the nature of the concept. Hans Kelsen proposed the ‘pure theory of law’, which states that the purpose of law is to define rules that individuals must abide by. This makes it a ‘normative science’.
Another view of the concept of law is that it functions as a tool of social engineering, with different social wants and needs competing for priority. Roscoe Pound argued that law is coercive because it is a means of social control.
Law is a complex subject to study, and it is difficult for any one person to provide an accurate law definition because of the many different legal systems in place. Despite this, the study of law has long been an important part of higher education, with students learning the principles of the subject by studying for degrees such as law degree, or by attending university courses on topics like legal research and analysis.
Some students find it easier to learn the theory of law by taking part in hands-on experiences, such as a clinical placement at a solicitors’ firm or at a local legal aid office. Such work helps them to see how the law is applied in practice and gives them practical skills that they can take into their careers. In addition, it also helps to give them a better understanding of the role that lawyers and other legal professionals play in society. It is also an excellent way to gain a competitive edge when applying for jobs in the field.