Abstract

This book is based on the assumption that the world is governed by a widespread field of interconnected laws. In this field man-made laws – legal laws - have to coexist with the laws of nature, the laws of science and the laws of logic. They have to find their place in relation to a certain society. They have to relate to the demands of morality, ethics, custom and trust. They have to follow the laws of language. They have to deal with a variety of professional and esthetic rules. They have to defend their position between art and craft. Finally, and significantly, they have to cope with a host of different ideas about truth. This book approaches law as a human construct meant to strengthen society as it develops through the ages. Knowledge of the law – legal knowledge – is of doubtful value if it ignores the demands and ideals of society. The same goes for the thinking leading to legal knowledge. This book focuses on a basic concept. That concept is met if the legal thinking, leading to legal knowledge, reaches the level of an independent, law and society oriented, contemplative discipline. A discipline which is in that sense and to that extent in touch with - cherished or less cherished - parts of given law.