Law is a set of rules that govern behavior. In the past, most legal theory has focused on the attributes of law and the capacity of individuals to follow rules. It also focuses on normative limits on the use of force by coercive power. Modern legal theory, however, has expanded into a wide range of areas.
Legality
A legal system is considered to be legitimate if it has certain general characteristics. Using this principle, one can examine the institutional features of a legal system.
Generality
Generality of law is the principle that laws should apply equally to everyone. This principle prevents discrimination and promotes fairness in society. Opponents argue that the principle is unnecessary, since bad laws should apply to the entire population.
Accessibility
Public sector organizations, including local government organisations and charities, are obligated by law to provide accessible information technologies. The new law applies to websites, mobile applications, and communications facilities. Failure to comply can result in lawsuits and damage to brand reputation.
Human rights
Human rights in law are rights guaranteed to individuals by law. These rights are protected by international and regional human rights treaties. International law is also shaped by the decisions of authoritative bodies. For example, the Human Rights Committee of the UN oversees the implementation of the ICCPR. Other sources of human rights law include decisions issued by UN human rights treaty monitoring bodies and case law from international courts.
Presumption of human dignity
Human dignity is a central principle of law. It is a universal ideal and helps to establish a common understanding of treatment with dignity. In this article we examine this concept and its application in Germany and South Africa.
Public knowledge
Public knowledge of law is important in modern society. The lack of legal knowledge can lead laypeople to make imprudent decisions. They may not understand legal terms or fundamental principles, and they may place unrealistic expectations on lawyers. This can limit the quality of the lay public’s contribution to policymaking.
Formal elements
There are several elements of law that form the foundation of the rule of law. First, there are the formal elements of law. This body of rules includes norms governing the conduct of individuals. They are usually applied with consideration to the perspective of the person. Secondly, there are the procedural elements. These principles capture the notion of law as a mode of governing people. Finally, there are the dignitarian principles, which relate to the treatment of human beings.