Law is a discipline and profession concerned with practices, customs, and rules that are binding on a society because they have been endorsed or enforced by a controlling authority. The practice of law shapes politics, economics and history in many ways. It influences relationships, governance and commerce, enforcing rights and providing stability. It is also the mediator that binds people together across time, ensuring fairness and justice are realised.
Different legal systems and individuals have varying definitions of law, but a common idea is that it refers to the rules created by a government that citizens must follow or face punishment. For example, most places have laws against stealing, and if caught, one can be fined or imprisoned for breaking that law.
The nature of these laws differs from country to country, but in general they include a wide range of rules addressing matters such as property, family, labour, immigration and criminal activity. These are often backed by courts and other legal institutions, allowing a level playing field for all regardless of social class or wealth.
Some legal systems are based on Roman and canon law, while others use principles from utilitarian philosopher Jeremy Bentham’s theory of law. This argues that laws should be based on a principle of mutual benefit and promote rationality, equality and justice. Others, such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Thomas Aquinas, believe in natural law, whereby there are unchanging moral principles that must be obeyed.