Law is the set of rules that governs human behaviour in a society. These rules are enforced by the state and sanctioned by a system of punishments. The state also regulates economic activity and public utilities. In other words, law is a framework that ensures that people live peacefully with each other. The laws are made by the government and the sanctions are imposed by courts or other governing bodies. The different types of laws include tort law, which covers damages for injuries caused by negligent or reckless behavior; criminal law, which deals with offenses against the state itself; and civil law, which covers disputes between private parties, such as divorce proceedings or property squabbles.
There are various theories of law. The utilitarian school, exemplified by Bentham, defines it as “commands, backed by threat of sanctions, from a sovereign, to whom people have a habit of obedience”. John Austin used this definition of law in his essay on natural law. Others, such as Rousseau, argue that law reflects essentially moral and unchanging laws of nature. These ideas became popular with the development of the Enlightenment in the 18th century and were influenced by Christianity, particularly the teachings of Jesus.
It is important to note that the framers of the Constitution in the United States realized that the existence of law depends on the presence of a stable, democratic political order. This is why the constitution established the separation of powers between the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the federal government. This structure was designed to ensure that the tyranny of the majority does not exist in any branch of the federal government.
Although it is true that law is largely dictated by who has power over the nation, there are still struggles for democracy and greater rights for citizens around the world. Each year there are some revolts against existing legal authority, and the aspiration for greater political freedom is a constant theme in politics and law.
Law is a very broad field, covering everything from the basic rules of traffic to complex matters such as international trade. Oxford Reference’s collection of more than 34,000 concise definitions and in-depth encyclopedic entries spans this entire range. We have articles on the major areas of law, including criminal law, family law, and employment law, as well as major debates in legal theory. Our law articles are authored by trusted experts for researchers at every level, and include chronologies to help you track key events. Our law titles are available in print and online, as well as in our subscription services for institutions. To learn more about our law resources, please visit our Law page.