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 EDITION

• Expanded discussions of theories of justice, globalisation, and environmental protection
• A new section dedicated to judicial review and democracy
• Updated suggested further reading lists and self-test questions at the end of each chapter.

This title is available as an eBook. Visit VitalSource for more information or to purchase.

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

Raymond Wacks - Emeritus Professor of Law and Legal Theory, University of Hong Kong.

Understanding Jurisprudence, sixth edition, is accompanied by the following student resources:

• 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

"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.