Justice as Friendship: A Theory of Law

Justice as Friendship: A Theory of Law, Ashgate, UK, May 2015

Singapore Management University School of Law Research Paper No. 55/2015

Posted: 19 Nov 2015

See all articles by Seow Hon Tan

Seow Hon Tan

Singapore Management University - Yong Pung How School of Law

Date Written: May 2015

Abstract

This book explores the question of justification of law. It examines some perennial jurisprudential debates and suggests that law must find its justification in morality. Drawing upon the Aristotelian inspiration that friends have no need for justice - in (ideal) friendship, we behave justly - this book develops a theory of law based on the universal phenomenon of friendship. Friendships and legal relations attract rights and obligations by virtue of the manner in which parties are situated. Friendship teaches us that how parties are situated gives rise to legitimate expectations; it attests to the intrinsic worth of each person. The methodology for deciphering norms within, and moral lessons from, friendship can be transposed to law, resulting in an inter-subjectively agreeable and rich conception of justice. In determining the content of legal rights and obligations, we can and should draw upon such determination in friendship. Justice as Friendship aims to provide a vision for law’s development and invites the practitioner to advance its central claims in their area of expertise. In dealing with selected legal doctrines, the book draws upon illustrative cases from the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Commonwealth.  

Suggested Citation

Tan, Seow Hon, Justice as Friendship: A Theory of Law (May 2015). Justice as Friendship: A Theory of Law, Ashgate, UK, May 2015, Singapore Management University School of Law Research Paper No. 55/2015, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2692471

Seow Hon Tan (Contact Author)

Singapore Management University - Yong Pung How School of Law ( email )

55 Armenian Street
Singapore, 179943
Singapore

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