Law

Oxford International Encyclopedia of Legal History, 2008

St. John's Legal Studies Research Paper No. 08-0095

19 Pages Posted: 10 Jan 2008

See all articles by Brian Z. Tamanaha

Brian Z. Tamanaha

Washington University in St. Louis - School of Law

Abstract

"What is law?" is an age-old question that has eluded resolution. This essay covers attempts to answer this question within legal theory and within the social sciences. It sets out three main categories of answers to this question and explains the limitations of each. It argues that a more fruitful approach would accept that there are multiple concepts of law.

The essay, which will serve as an entry for an encyclopedia, is intended as a concise overview for non-specialists, although it should also be useful for legal theorists and socio-legal theorists who are interested in the concept of law.

Suggested Citation

Tamanaha, Brian Z., Law. Oxford International Encyclopedia of Legal History, 2008 , St. John's Legal Studies Research Paper No. 08-0095, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1082436

Brian Z. Tamanaha (Contact Author)

Washington University in St. Louis - School of Law ( email )

Campus Box 1120
St. Louis, MO 63130
United States

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