Books in the Law and Society series

In Custom , Ferdinand Tonnies illustrates the relationship of custom to various aspects of culture, such as religion, gender, and family. Tonnies argues that all social norms are evolved from a basic sense of order, which is largely derived from customs. As such, custom refers to the ideal, and the desirable, and it mediates subjective aspects of social life. Tonnies makes observations in Custom that are just as true today as when they were written over a century ago. The pivotal idea in Tonnies work is the observation that custom, like its individual counterpart habit, has three distinct aspects: a fact--an actual way of conduct; a norm--a general rule of conduct; and a will. The analysis, extended into the field of collective behaviour, helps to explain how far custom can be regarded as a manifestation of a common will. Custom is a classic contribution in the grand canon of law and society scholarship. Moreover, the volume introduces several key elements of Tonnies' work focusing on broader sociological thought, which benefits both the theoretical understanding of law as an object of social science reflection, as well as provides empirical insights into the roles of law in society.

Consists of discussions of the works of scholars who have contributed to the cumulative development of the sociology of law. This work surveys the major traditions of legal sociology but is not wedded to any one particular theoretical approach. It also features key sociological and legal concepts, that are presented in bold print and italics.

Laying the groundwork for analyses of important aspects of corporate behavior, this book defines corporate crime and finds ways of locating corporate violations from various sources. Among the issues tackled are whether corporate crime is greater and the laws to control corporate crime and alternative approaches.

A critical look at the legal order in capitalist society. Using a traditional Marxist perspective, Richard Quinney argues that the legal order is not intended to reduce crime and suffering, but to maintain class differences and a social order that mainly benefits the ruling class.

A critical look at the legal order in capitalist society. Using a traditional Marxist perspective, Richard Quinney argues that the legal order is not intended to reduce crime and suffering, but to maintain class differences and a social order that mainly benefits the ruling class.

The core of this book is a continuation of the efforts, apparent in the work of Max Weber, to resolve or integrate the dualism which is affecting law. The introduction discusses the author's place in the history of the sociology of law and the context in which his works should be placed.