General Theory of Law and the State

Author: Kelsen
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-02-01
Features: This book is one of the representative works of Kelsen, the founder of the Pure Theory of Law, and one of the classic works of modern Western jurisprudence. Kelsen (1881-1973) was originally from Austria and served as a judge of the Supreme Constitutional Court. In 1940, he emigrated to the United States and later became a U.S. citizen. This book provides a comprehensive and systematic exposition of general theoretical issues concerning law and the state. The book is divided into two parts—Legal Theory and State Theory—and an appendix. The first part discusses fundamental legal issues such as the concept of law, legal rights, legal obligations, and legal liability. The second part explores the basic concepts and principles of the state and international law. The appendix analyzes the differences between the two major opposing schools of Western jurisprudence.