Law involves the rules, principles and processes that govern human relations and social change. Government-enforced laws can be made by a legislative body, resulting in statutes, or established by a judge through precedent, usually in common law jurisdictions. Private individuals can also create legally binding contracts and arbitration agreements. The study of law is a rich source of scholarly inquiry into legal history, philosophy, economic analysis and sociology. The law can be viewed as a tool for good or evil, and it raises profound questions about the relationship between the individual and society.
The law serves many purposes, but the principal ones are establishing standards, maintaining order, resolving disputes and protecting liberties and rights. Some governments serve those purposes better than others. For example, an authoritarian regime may keep the peace and maintain the status quo, but it can oppress minorities or political opponents.
There are a wide range of subjects that fall within the law, including criminal procedure (the rules and procedures that apply to a case), administrative procedure (the rules that courts must follow in the course of their work) and the law of evidence (which involves the types of materials that can be admitted into court for a trial). Law has a significant impact on everyday life, and it is essential for our modern economy.
Having a solid knowledge of the law allows you to better understand important issues that affect us all. It helps you sort your thoughts and assert your opinions about change in a way that connects with the world at a deeper level.
