Law is the collection of rules created and enforced by a community through a controlling authority to regulate behavior. It is the basis for civil society, and it forms the political foundation for government. It is the societal infrastructure that supports economic development, and it provides the basis for justice and safety. Laws are made by legislators and interpreted by the courts. Their exact definition is a matter of debate, and the precise nature of the law can be considered both a social science and an art.

Modern societies have numerous laws governing their citizens in different ways. Civil laws govern people’s relations to each other, whereas criminal laws are designed to punish those who break them. Laws also regulate businesses, and they establish rules about taxation and banking practices. They address the use of force by police and military forces, the rights of individuals to privacy, and many other aspects of life in nation-states.

In its broadest sense, a society’s law is the set of beliefs and values that the members share concerning their interactions with each other and with the external world. These are often codified in a constitution or other legal document. They are shaped by the culture and history of the society, and they can vary considerably among nations.

A society’s laws are a reflection of its values and ideals, and they can be used as a tool to guide human behavior and social progress. In many cultures, laws are intended to be fair and just, and they encourage cooperation and mutual respect. However, some societies’ laws are designed to control or suppress the freedoms of others. The difference between an individual’s privately told tale of legal inequality and the codified community narrative can be as great as the difference between the speed of sound and the speed of light.

The most fundamental principles of a system of law are equality, accountability, separation of powers, participation in decision-making, and the supremacy of the law. They are the foundation for the rule of law, which is a guiding principle for the international community in its dealings with states and other entities. The rule of law requires that laws be publicly promulgated, equally enforced, and independently adjudicated, while ensuring adherence to international human rights standards and norms.

The study of law is a discipline and profession known as jurisprudence, which includes philosophy, ethics, and history. Law is taught in a variety of institutions, including schools, colleges and universities, and professional associations and societies. In addition, the practice of law is regulated by state or local governments, and lawyers must pass a bar examination or other qualification to be licensed to practice. Lawyers must also maintain a high standard of ethical conduct, which is enforced through a variety of methods.