Combining philosophical pargmatism with a methodological foundation, Tamanaha formulates a framework for a realistic approach to socio-legal theory. The strengths of this approach are contrasted with that of the major schools of socio-legal theory by application to core issues in this area. Thus Tamanaha explores the problematic state of socio-legal studies, the relationship between behaviour and meaning, the notion of legal ideology, the problem of indeterminacy in rule following and application, and the structure of judicial decision making. These issues are tackled in a clear and concise fashion while articulating a social theory of law which draws equally from legal theory and socio-legal theory.

Awarded a Certificate of Special Recognition from the Law Society

About the Author
Brian Z. Tamanaha is Associate Professor at St. John's University School of Law, New York. He was a public defender in Hawaii and an assistant attorney-general in Micronesia.

Reviews
by any criterion an excellent book ... Tamanaha has produced a work which should feature as a core text in jurisprudence courses. * Oxford Journal of Legal Studies *
This is the most significant piece of work for anybody in Jurisprudence, Socio-Legal Studies, or Legal Theory. * Neil MacCormick *
a rich insight into almost every question legal theory has vexed itself with over the past twenty-five years * Stanley Fish *


Awards
Winner of Awarded a Certificate of Special Recognition from the Law Society.



Book Information
ISBN 9780198265603
Author Brian Z. Tamanaha
Format Hardback
Page Count 296
Imprint Clarendon Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 479g
Dimensions(mm) 224mm * 143mm * 20mm