Publisher Description

Understanding Jurisprudence provides an illuminating and engaging introduction to the central questions of legal theory. Written with students in mind, Professor Raymond Wacks brings legal theory to life through his lucid and entertaining style. The author has crafted a manageable guide, balancing concise introductions to the key theorists and core issues such as punishment and rights without ignoring the subtleties of the subject.Seminal quotes from leading scholars are included to help students recognise the impact of their work, while extensive further reading suggestions at the end of each chapter invite students to explore the broad range of literature available on central topics. Each chapter concludes with a series of critical questions designed to encourage the reader to think analytically about the law and the key debates which surround it.NEW TO THIS EDITIONExpanded discussions of theories of justice, globalisation, and environmental protectionA new section dedicated to judicial review and democracyUpdated suggested further reading lists and self-test questions at the end of each chapter.This title is available as an eBook. Please contact your Learning Resource Consultant for more information.

Author Biography

Professor Raymond Wacks has taught jurisprudence around the world for over thirty years. He has published more than twenty books and numerous articles on legal philosophy, the right of privacy, and human and animal rights. His books have been translated into several languages including Arabic, Greek, Turkish, Chinese, Italian, Indonesian, Japanese, Thai, and Georgian.

Table of Contents

1. What's it all about? 2. Natural law and morality 3. Classical legal positivism 4. Modern legal positivism 5. Dworkin and law's moral claims 6. Legal realism 7. Law and social theory 8. Historical and anthropological jurisprudence 9. Theories of justice 10. Rights 11. Why obey the law? 12. Why punish? 13. Critical legal theory 14. Feminist theory

Review

"Understanding Jurisprudence is a solid, authoritative, and easy-to-read textbook which offers a comprehensive discussion of jurisprudence." - Dr Luca Siliquini-Cinelli, Lecturer in Law, University of Dundee."This is an excellent book for law students which provides a well-structured and deep analysis of the major legal theories." - Professor Mauro Zamboni, Stockholm University."Wacks has a remarkable ability to convey difficult concepts and ideas without distorting their meaning." - Daniel Bansal, Lecturer in Law, University of Leicester."An admirably clear, extremely helpful, and accurate introduction to this formidable subject. The elegance of the writing and the breadth of knowledge - displayed here in such an easily accessible form - make it essential reading for every student of jurisprudence." - Stephen Guest, Emeritus Professor of Legal Philosophy, University College London.

Long Description

Written with students in mind, Professor Raymond Wacks brings legal theory to life through his lucid and entertaining style. The author has crafted a manageable guide, balancing concise introductions to the key theorists and core issues such as punishment and rights without ignoring the subtleties of the subject.Seminal quotes from leading scholars are included to help students recognise the impact of their work, while extensive further reading suggestions at the end of each chapter invite students to explore the broad range of literature available on central topics. Each chapter concludes with a series of critical questions designed to encourage the reader to think analytically about the law and the key debates which surround it.Digital formats and resourcesThe sixth edition is available for students and institutions to purchase in a variety of formats, and is supported by online resources.- The e-book offers a mobile experience and convenient access along with functionality tools, navigation features, and links that offer extra learning support: A range of resources for this book are available online: - Self-test questions with instant feedback- Interactive flashcards of key glossary terms- Guidance and advice on studying jurisprudence- Links to useful websites- Further reading suggestions

Review Text

"Understanding Jurisprudence is a solid, authoritative, and easy-to-read textbook which offers a comprehensive discussion of jurisprudence." - Dr Luca Siliquini-Cinelli, Lecturer in Law, University of Dundee."This is an excellent book for law students which provides a well-structured and deep analysis of the major legal theories." - Professor Mauro Zamboni, Stockholm University."Wacks has a remarkable ability to convey difficult concepts and ideas without distorting their meaning." - Daniel Bansal, Lecturer in Law, University of Leicester."An admirably clear, extremely helpful, and accurate introduction to this formidable subject. The elegance of the writing and the breadth of knowledge - displayed here in such an easily accessible form - make it essential reading for every student of jurisprudence." - Stephen Guest, Emeritus Professor of Legal Philosophy, University College London.

Review Quote

Wacks has a remarkable ability to convey difficult concepts and ideas without distorting their meaning.

Details