Law is the collection of rules and customs established by a society. It consists of written and unwritten codes, statutes and regulations. It also refers to the profession of lawyers and judges who advise people on the law, represent them in court and give decisions and punishments.
Legal science (law, history of law, legal philosophy and sociology) is a rich source of scholarly inquiry, and the study of law forms an important part of humanities and social sciences. Law shapes politics, economics and history and provides a basis for arguments concerning justice, equality and fairness.
While many laws are indisputable, it is not possible to prove their content with the same rigour as it is with empirical sciences (as for example with gravity) or even social sciences (such as the law of supply and demand). In addition to the fact that its statements are normative in nature, law is highly dependent on human activity and mental operations.
The most significant features of law are that it is binding, enforceable and universally applicable. It defines people’s rights and duties in the areas of personal, family and commercial affairs. It ensures that people face consequences for bad behaviour regardless of their wealth or status and that checks are in place to limit abuses of power, such as a free press and independent judiciary.