Veidlapa Nr. M-3 (8)
Study Course Description
Philosophy of Law
Course Code
JF_028
Branch of Science
Law; Theory and History of Rights
ECTS
3.00
Target Audience
Juridical Science
LQF
Level 6
Study Type And Form
Full-Time; Part-Time
Study Course Implementer
Course Supervisor
Agnese Beļska
Structure Unit Manager
Ieva Puzo
Structural Unit
Faculty of Social Sciences
Contacts
Dzirciema street 16, Rīga, szf@rsu.lv
About Study Course
Objective
At the end of the course, the student will be able to characterize the basic concepts, issues and most important traditions of legal philosophy in their development from the ancient world to the present day, to analyze contemporary legal and social processes using the findings of legal philosophy, and to evaluate the role of legal philosophy in legal science and research in an argumentative manner.
Preliminary Knowledge
Legal Theory, History of Latvian Law, Logic.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
1.Describe the origin, historical development and essence of law in the context of philosophy.
Individual work and tests
Knowledge test • Introduction to the philosophy of law • Examination
2.Describe and compare the main schools of legal philosophy – the natural law school, legal positivism, the historical school of law and the socialist/communist school of law – and explain their influence on contemporary legal thought.
Individual work and tests
Examination • Task “validity and fairness of rights” • Knowledge test • Work within the study course
3.Describe the main ideas of the most important representatives of legal philosophy and their significance in the development of legal philosophical thought from antiquity to the present day.
Individual work and tests
Knowledge test • Task “validity and fairness of rights” • Examination
4.Describes, compares and analyses the basic theories and concepts of the philosophy of law – the theories of the ideal state, the social contract and the separation of powers, the theory of commands, the concepts of the basic norm and the rule of recognition, as well as modern theories of justice and interpretative theories of law.
Individual work and tests
Examination • Knowledge test
5.Explain the content of basic concepts of the philosophy of law and analyse the related issues, including issues of legality, justice, equality, freedom, human dignity, duty, responsibility, common good and happiness.
Individual work and tests
Knowledge test • Task “validity and fairness of rights” • Work within the study course • Examination
Skills
1.Is able to critically evaluate the knowledge of the philosophy of law developed at different ages and select the information relevant to the analysis of modern legal problems and the justification of solutions.
Individual work and tests
Examination • Work within the study course • Task “validity and fairness of rights”
2.Able to analyse legal problem situations from the perspective of different legal philosophies and parties involved in legal relations by identifying different interpretations, objectives and interests.
Individual work and tests
Work within the study course • Examination
3.Is able to link historical legal philosophy findings with contemporary legal issues and see the lawfulness of their development, including by explaining the prerequisites for the formation of the Latvian legal system.
Individual work and tests
Examination • Work within the study course • Task “validity and fairness of rights”
4.Capable of structured formulation, academic justification and argumentative advocacy on issues of legal philosophy.
Individual work and tests
Work within the study course • Examination
5.Able to cooperate with the team, listen to and weigh differing opinions, build a common position and defend it in a reasoned way.
Individual work and tests
Work within the study course
Competences
1.At the end of the course, the student is able to reassess issues of legal philosophy and link them to the context of modern legal practice and professional activity.
Individual work and tests
Work within the study course • Task “validity and fairness of rights” • Examination
2.The knowledge acquired by the student in the philosophy of law will provide the basis for the development of the understanding of the philosophy of law in today’s context. The student will be able to collect and analyse the information independently, linking it to the legal philosophy directions.
Individual work and tests
Examination • Work within the study course
Assessment
Individual work
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Introduction to the philosophy of law |
-
|
Test
|
|
A small individual introductory task to be performed before the first lecture and prepare the student for the completion of the course. The objective of the task is to update foreground and develop an initial understanding of the origin, nature and fundamental issues of legal philosophy. The task is evaluated as netting or not. The results are discussed in the first lesson. Successfully completing a task is a necessary prerequisite for taking an exam. |
||
|
2.
Task “validity and fairness of rights” |
-
|
Test
|
|
The student shall self-familiarise himself or herself with the indicated sources and study literature and perform a structured task in the e-study environment regarding the validity, equity and obligation of the right to submit to mutual relations. The task is evaluated as netting or not. Successfully completing a task is a necessary prerequisite for taking an exam. |
||
|
3.
Work within the study course |
20.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
Individual and group work using basic lines of legal philosophy in problem analysis, reasoned position building and reflection. The organisation of work, number of tasks and evaluation criteria are specified in e-studies according to the form of study. Successful work within the study course is a mandatory prerequisite for taking an examination. |
||
Examination
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Knowledge test |
30.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
The student individually takes the test in an e-learning environment, in which knowledge and understanding of basic directions of legal philosophy, major representatives, theories, concepts and issues are examined. The test is evaluated on a 10-point scale and accounts for 30% of the final assessment of the study course. To take the test, you must get at least 4 points in the test. |
||
|
2.
Examination |
50.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
A written examination evaluating the student’s understanding of the directions, theories and concepts of legal philosophy acquired in the study course, as well as the ability to compare and analyse them in a reasoned manner. The exam shall be conducted without consumables. The range of exam questions is published in advance in e-studies. A prerequisite for taking an examination is the fulfilment of all the mandatory requirements of the study course and the successful passing of intermediate examinations. |
||
Study Course Theme Plan
FULL-TIME
Part 1
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Introduction to the philosophy of law
Description
The concept, purpose and tasks of the philosophy of law. The subject and content of the philosophy of law. The place of the philosophy of law in philosophy and legal science. Basic questions of the ontology, gnosology and axiology of law: the essence and cognition of law, the validity and justice of law, and the relationship between law and morality. The origins of the philosophy of law in Europe. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Introduction to the philosophy of law
Description
The concept, purpose and tasks of the philosophy of law. The subject and content of the philosophy of law. The place of the philosophy of law in philosophy and legal science. Basic questions of the ontology, gnosology and axiology of law: the essence and cognition of law, the validity and justice of law, and the relationship between law and morality. The origins of the philosophy of law in Europe. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Tradition of natural rights
Description
Ideas of ancient legal philosophy on law, justice and the state, the origins of the tradition of natural law. Medieval ideas of natural law. Enlightenment philosophy of natural law and the state, theories of the social contract and separation of powers. Kant's philosophy of law, criticism and decline of classical natural law. The idea of natural law in Latvian legal philosophy. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Tradition of natural rights
Description
Ideas of ancient legal philosophy on law, justice and the state, the origins of the tradition of natural law. Medieval ideas of natural law. Enlightenment philosophy of natural law and the state, theories of the social contract and separation of powers. Kant's philosophy of law, criticism and decline of classical natural law. The idea of natural law in Latvian legal philosophy. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Tradition of natural rights
Description
Ideas of ancient legal philosophy on law, justice and the state, the origins of the tradition of natural law. Medieval ideas of natural law. Enlightenment philosophy of natural law and the state, theories of the social contract and separation of powers. Kant's philosophy of law, criticism and decline of classical natural law. The idea of natural law in Latvian legal philosophy. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Tradition of natural rights
Description
Ideas of ancient legal philosophy on law, justice and the state, the origins of the tradition of natural law. Medieval ideas of natural law. Enlightenment philosophy of natural law and the state, theories of the social contract and separation of powers. Kant's philosophy of law, criticism and decline of classical natural law. The idea of natural law in Latvian legal philosophy. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Historic Law School and philosophy of Hegel Law
Description
Prerequisites and guidelines for the emergence of the historic School of Law, Savinji and others, ideas for the historical development of popular spirit, customary rights and rights. The philosophy of Hegel’s rights, freedom and state, and its connection to the historical approach. Criticism of the direction and impact on the legal system of Latvia. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Historic Law School and philosophy of Hegel Law
Description
Prerequisites and guidelines for the emergence of the historic School of Law, Savinji and others, ideas for the historical development of popular spirit, customary rights and rights. The philosophy of Hegel’s rights, freedom and state, and its connection to the historical approach. Criticism of the direction and impact on the legal system of Latvia. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Legal positivism
Description
The emergence, development and guidelines of legal positivism. The Bentam and Austin team theory, Kelsen’s normativism, the pure law lesson and basic norm, the concept of the Charter’s primary and secondary norms and the recognition rule. The problem of the validity of rights and the distinction between morality and criticism of legal positivism. Lamb’s interest approach, sociological and psychological understanding of rights as alternative directions. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Legal positivism
Description
The emergence, development and guidelines of legal positivism. The Bentam and Austin team theory, Kelsen’s normativism, the pure law lesson and basic norm, the concept of the Charter’s primary and secondary norms and the recognition rule. The problem of the validity of rights and the distinction between morality and criticism of legal positivism. Lamb’s interest approach, sociological and psychological understanding of rights as alternative directions. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Socialist and Communist understanding of rights
Description
Marxist understanding of state, rights, property and work; rights as an expression of society’s economic and divisive relationships. The doctrine of socialist and Soviet law, its influence on Latvia’s legal system and criticism. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Legal positivism
Description
The emergence, development and guidelines of legal positivism. The Bentam and Austin team theory, Kelsen’s normativism, the pure law lesson and basic norm, the concept of the Charter’s primary and secondary norms and the recognition rule. The problem of the validity of rights and the distinction between morality and criticism of legal positivism. Lamb’s interest approach, sociological and psychological understanding of rights as alternative directions. |
|
Socialist and Communist understanding of rights
Description
Marxist understanding of state, rights, property and work; rights as an expression of society’s economic and divisive relationships. The doctrine of socialist and Soviet law, its influence on Latvia’s legal system and criticism. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Strands and challenges of the philosophy of modern law
Description
A post-war discussion about the resurgence of natural rights, the Radbroach formula and the problem of an unfair law. Rowles’s theory of fairness and Dvorkin’s interpretative theory of law, the relationship between legal norms and principles. Problems of justice, freedom, equality, human dignity, duty, responsibility, happiness and universal good. The idea of a legal and socially responsible state. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Strands and challenges of the philosophy of modern law
Description
A post-war discussion about the resurgence of natural rights, the Radbroach formula and the problem of an unfair law. Rowles’s theory of fairness and Dvorkin’s interpretative theory of law, the relationship between legal norms and principles. Problems of justice, freedom, equality, human dignity, duty, responsibility, happiness and universal good. The idea of a legal and socially responsible state. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Strands and challenges of the philosophy of modern law
Description
A post-war discussion about the resurgence of natural rights, the Radbroach formula and the problem of an unfair law. Rowles’s theory of fairness and Dvorkin’s interpretative theory of law, the relationship between legal norms and principles. Problems of justice, freedom, equality, human dignity, duty, responsibility, happiness and universal good. The idea of a legal and socially responsible state. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Strands and challenges of the philosophy of modern law
Description
A post-war discussion about the resurgence of natural rights, the Radbroach formula and the problem of an unfair law. Rowles’s theory of fairness and Dvorkin’s interpretative theory of law, the relationship between legal norms and principles. Problems of justice, freedom, equality, human dignity, duty, responsibility, happiness and universal good. The idea of a legal and socially responsible state. |
-
Test
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Introduction to the philosophy of law
Description
The concept, purpose and tasks of the philosophy of law. The subject and content of the philosophy of law. The place of the philosophy of law in philosophy and legal science. Basic questions of the ontology, gnosology and axiology of law: the essence and cognition of law, the validity and justice of law, and the relationship between law and morality. The origins of the philosophy of law in Europe. |
|
Tradition of natural rights
Description
Ideas of ancient legal philosophy on law, justice and the state, the origins of the tradition of natural law. Medieval ideas of natural law. Enlightenment philosophy of natural law and the state, theories of the social contract and separation of powers. Kant's philosophy of law, criticism and decline of classical natural law. The idea of natural law in Latvian legal philosophy. |
|
Historic Law School and philosophy of Hegel Law
Description
Prerequisites and guidelines for the emergence of the historic School of Law, Savinji and others, ideas for the historical development of popular spirit, customary rights and rights. The philosophy of Hegel’s rights, freedom and state, and its connection to the historical approach. Criticism of the direction and impact on the legal system of Latvia. |
|
Legal positivism
Description
The emergence, development and guidelines of legal positivism. The Bentam and Austin team theory, Kelsen’s normativism, the pure law lesson and basic norm, the concept of the Charter’s primary and secondary norms and the recognition rule. The problem of the validity of rights and the distinction between morality and criticism of legal positivism. Lamb’s interest approach, sociological and psychological understanding of rights as alternative directions. |
|
Socialist and Communist understanding of rights
Description
Marxist understanding of state, rights, property and work; rights as an expression of society’s economic and divisive relationships. The doctrine of socialist and Soviet law, its influence on Latvia’s legal system and criticism. |
|
Strands and challenges of the philosophy of modern law
Description
A post-war discussion about the resurgence of natural rights, the Radbroach formula and the problem of an unfair law. Rowles’s theory of fairness and Dvorkin’s interpretative theory of law, the relationship between legal norms and principles. Problems of justice, freedom, equality, human dignity, duty, responsibility, happiness and universal good. The idea of a legal and socially responsible state. |
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
32 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Exam (Written)
PART-TIME
Part 1
-
Unaided Work
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
E-Studies platform
|
2
|
Topics
|
Introduction to the philosophy of law
Description
The concept, purpose and tasks of the philosophy of law. The subject and content of the philosophy of law. The place of the philosophy of law in philosophy and legal science. Basic questions of the ontology, gnosology and axiology of law: the essence and cognition of law, the validity and justice of law, and the relationship between law and morality. The origins of the philosophy of law in Europe. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Introduction to the philosophy of law
Description
The concept, purpose and tasks of the philosophy of law. The subject and content of the philosophy of law. The place of the philosophy of law in philosophy and legal science. Basic questions of the ontology, gnosology and axiology of law: the essence and cognition of law, the validity and justice of law, and the relationship between law and morality. The origins of the philosophy of law in Europe. |
|
Tradition of natural rights
Description
Ideas of ancient legal philosophy on law, justice and the state, the origins of the tradition of natural law. Medieval ideas of natural law. Enlightenment philosophy of natural law and the state, theories of the social contract and separation of powers. Kant's philosophy of law, criticism and decline of classical natural law. The idea of natural law in Latvian legal philosophy. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Tradition of natural rights
Description
Ideas of ancient legal philosophy on law, justice and the state, the origins of the tradition of natural law. Medieval ideas of natural law. Enlightenment philosophy of natural law and the state, theories of the social contract and separation of powers. Kant's philosophy of law, criticism and decline of classical natural law. The idea of natural law in Latvian legal philosophy. |
-
Unaided Work
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
E-Studies platform
|
2
|
Topics
|
Tradition of natural rights
Description
Ideas of ancient legal philosophy on law, justice and the state, the origins of the tradition of natural law. Medieval ideas of natural law. Enlightenment philosophy of natural law and the state, theories of the social contract and separation of powers. Kant's philosophy of law, criticism and decline of classical natural law. The idea of natural law in Latvian legal philosophy. |
|
Legal positivism
Description
The emergence, development and guidelines of legal positivism. The Bentam and Austin team theory, Kelsen’s normativism, the pure law lesson and basic norm, the concept of the Charter’s primary and secondary norms and the recognition rule. The problem of the validity of rights and the distinction between morality and criticism of legal positivism. Lamb’s interest approach, sociological and psychological understanding of rights as alternative directions. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Historic Law School and philosophy of Hegel Law
Description
Prerequisites and guidelines for the emergence of the historic School of Law, Savinji and others, ideas for the historical development of popular spirit, customary rights and rights. The philosophy of Hegel’s rights, freedom and state, and its connection to the historical approach. Criticism of the direction and impact on the legal system of Latvia. |
|
Legal positivism
Description
The emergence, development and guidelines of legal positivism. The Bentam and Austin team theory, Kelsen’s normativism, the pure law lesson and basic norm, the concept of the Charter’s primary and secondary norms and the recognition rule. The problem of the validity of rights and the distinction between morality and criticism of legal positivism. Lamb’s interest approach, sociological and psychological understanding of rights as alternative directions. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Auditorium
|
2
|
Topics
|
Socialist and Communist understanding of rights
Description
Marxist understanding of state, rights, property and work; rights as an expression of society’s economic and divisive relationships. The doctrine of socialist and Soviet law, its influence on Latvia’s legal system and criticism. |
|
Strands and challenges of the philosophy of modern law
Description
A post-war discussion about the resurgence of natural rights, the Radbroach formula and the problem of an unfair law. Rowles’s theory of fairness and Dvorkin’s interpretative theory of law, the relationship between legal norms and principles. Problems of justice, freedom, equality, human dignity, duty, responsibility, happiness and universal good. The idea of a legal and socially responsible state. |
-
Consultation
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Tradition of natural rights
Description
Ideas of ancient legal philosophy on law, justice and the state, the origins of the tradition of natural law. Medieval ideas of natural law. Enlightenment philosophy of natural law and the state, theories of the social contract and separation of powers. Kant's philosophy of law, criticism and decline of classical natural law. The idea of natural law in Latvian legal philosophy. |
|
Historic Law School and philosophy of Hegel Law
Description
Prerequisites and guidelines for the emergence of the historic School of Law, Savinji and others, ideas for the historical development of popular spirit, customary rights and rights. The philosophy of Hegel’s rights, freedom and state, and its connection to the historical approach. Criticism of the direction and impact on the legal system of Latvia. |
|
Legal positivism
Description
The emergence, development and guidelines of legal positivism. The Bentam and Austin team theory, Kelsen’s normativism, the pure law lesson and basic norm, the concept of the Charter’s primary and secondary norms and the recognition rule. The problem of the validity of rights and the distinction between morality and criticism of legal positivism. Lamb’s interest approach, sociological and psychological understanding of rights as alternative directions. |
|
Socialist and Communist understanding of rights
Description
Marxist understanding of state, rights, property and work; rights as an expression of society’s economic and divisive relationships. The doctrine of socialist and Soviet law, its influence on Latvia’s legal system and criticism. |
-
Test
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
E-Studies platform
|
2
|
Topics
|
Tradition of natural rights
Description
Ideas of ancient legal philosophy on law, justice and the state, the origins of the tradition of natural law. Medieval ideas of natural law. Enlightenment philosophy of natural law and the state, theories of the social contract and separation of powers. Kant's philosophy of law, criticism and decline of classical natural law. The idea of natural law in Latvian legal philosophy. |
|
Historic Law School and philosophy of Hegel Law
Description
Prerequisites and guidelines for the emergence of the historic School of Law, Savinji and others, ideas for the historical development of popular spirit, customary rights and rights. The philosophy of Hegel’s rights, freedom and state, and its connection to the historical approach. Criticism of the direction and impact on the legal system of Latvia. |
|
Legal positivism
Description
The emergence, development and guidelines of legal positivism. The Bentam and Austin team theory, Kelsen’s normativism, the pure law lesson and basic norm, the concept of the Charter’s primary and secondary norms and the recognition rule. The problem of the validity of rights and the distinction between morality and criticism of legal positivism. Lamb’s interest approach, sociological and psychological understanding of rights as alternative directions. |
|
Socialist and Communist understanding of rights
Description
Marxist understanding of state, rights, property and work; rights as an expression of society’s economic and divisive relationships. The doctrine of socialist and Soviet law, its influence on Latvia’s legal system and criticism. |
|
Strands and challenges of the philosophy of modern law
Description
A post-war discussion about the resurgence of natural rights, the Radbroach formula and the problem of an unfair law. Rowles’s theory of fairness and Dvorkin’s interpretative theory of law, the relationship between legal norms and principles. Problems of justice, freedom, equality, human dignity, duty, responsibility, happiness and universal good. The idea of a legal and socially responsible state. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Tradition of natural rights
Description
Ideas of ancient legal philosophy on law, justice and the state, the origins of the tradition of natural law. Medieval ideas of natural law. Enlightenment philosophy of natural law and the state, theories of the social contract and separation of powers. Kant's philosophy of law, criticism and decline of classical natural law. The idea of natural law in Latvian legal philosophy. |
|
Historic Law School and philosophy of Hegel Law
Description
Prerequisites and guidelines for the emergence of the historic School of Law, Savinji and others, ideas for the historical development of popular spirit, customary rights and rights. The philosophy of Hegel’s rights, freedom and state, and its connection to the historical approach. Criticism of the direction and impact on the legal system of Latvia. |
|
Legal positivism
Description
The emergence, development and guidelines of legal positivism. The Bentam and Austin team theory, Kelsen’s normativism, the pure law lesson and basic norm, the concept of the Charter’s primary and secondary norms and the recognition rule. The problem of the validity of rights and the distinction between morality and criticism of legal positivism. Lamb’s interest approach, sociological and psychological understanding of rights as alternative directions. |
|
Socialist and Communist understanding of rights
Description
Marxist understanding of state, rights, property and work; rights as an expression of society’s economic and divisive relationships. The doctrine of socialist and Soviet law, its influence on Latvia’s legal system and criticism. |
|
Strands and challenges of the philosophy of modern law
Description
A post-war discussion about the resurgence of natural rights, the Radbroach formula and the problem of an unfair law. Rowles’s theory of fairness and Dvorkin’s interpretative theory of law, the relationship between legal norms and principles. Problems of justice, freedom, equality, human dignity, duty, responsibility, happiness and universal good. The idea of a legal and socially responsible state. |
-
Consultation
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Introduction to the philosophy of law
Description
The concept, purpose and tasks of the philosophy of law. The subject and content of the philosophy of law. The place of the philosophy of law in philosophy and legal science. Basic questions of the ontology, gnosology and axiology of law: the essence and cognition of law, the validity and justice of law, and the relationship between law and morality. The origins of the philosophy of law in Europe. |
|
Tradition of natural rights
Description
Ideas of ancient legal philosophy on law, justice and the state, the origins of the tradition of natural law. Medieval ideas of natural law. Enlightenment philosophy of natural law and the state, theories of the social contract and separation of powers. Kant's philosophy of law, criticism and decline of classical natural law. The idea of natural law in Latvian legal philosophy. |
|
Historic Law School and philosophy of Hegel Law
Description
Prerequisites and guidelines for the emergence of the historic School of Law, Savinji and others, ideas for the historical development of popular spirit, customary rights and rights. The philosophy of Hegel’s rights, freedom and state, and its connection to the historical approach. Criticism of the direction and impact on the legal system of Latvia. |
|
Legal positivism
Description
The emergence, development and guidelines of legal positivism. The Bentam and Austin team theory, Kelsen’s normativism, the pure law lesson and basic norm, the concept of the Charter’s primary and secondary norms and the recognition rule. The problem of the validity of rights and the distinction between morality and criticism of legal positivism. Lamb’s interest approach, sociological and psychological understanding of rights as alternative directions. |
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Socialist and Communist understanding of rights
Description
Marxist understanding of state, rights, property and work; rights as an expression of society’s economic and divisive relationships. The doctrine of socialist and Soviet law, its influence on Latvia’s legal system and criticism. |
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Strands and challenges of the philosophy of modern law
Description
A post-war discussion about the resurgence of natural rights, the Radbroach formula and the problem of an unfair law. Rowles’s theory of fairness and Dvorkin’s interpretative theory of law, the relationship between legal norms and principles. Problems of justice, freedom, equality, human dignity, duty, responsibility, happiness and universal good. The idea of a legal and socially responsible state. |
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Test
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Modality
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Location
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Contact hours
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On site
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Study room
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2
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Topics
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Introduction to the philosophy of law
Description
The concept, purpose and tasks of the philosophy of law. The subject and content of the philosophy of law. The place of the philosophy of law in philosophy and legal science. Basic questions of the ontology, gnosology and axiology of law: the essence and cognition of law, the validity and justice of law, and the relationship between law and morality. The origins of the philosophy of law in Europe. |
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Tradition of natural rights
Description
Ideas of ancient legal philosophy on law, justice and the state, the origins of the tradition of natural law. Medieval ideas of natural law. Enlightenment philosophy of natural law and the state, theories of the social contract and separation of powers. Kant's philosophy of law, criticism and decline of classical natural law. The idea of natural law in Latvian legal philosophy. |
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Historic Law School and philosophy of Hegel Law
Description
Prerequisites and guidelines for the emergence of the historic School of Law, Savinji and others, ideas for the historical development of popular spirit, customary rights and rights. The philosophy of Hegel’s rights, freedom and state, and its connection to the historical approach. Criticism of the direction and impact on the legal system of Latvia. |
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Legal positivism
Description
The emergence, development and guidelines of legal positivism. The Bentam and Austin team theory, Kelsen’s normativism, the pure law lesson and basic norm, the concept of the Charter’s primary and secondary norms and the recognition rule. The problem of the validity of rights and the distinction between morality and criticism of legal positivism. Lamb’s interest approach, sociological and psychological understanding of rights as alternative directions. |
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Socialist and Communist understanding of rights
Description
Marxist understanding of state, rights, property and work; rights as an expression of society’s economic and divisive relationships. The doctrine of socialist and Soviet law, its influence on Latvia’s legal system and criticism. |
|
Strands and challenges of the philosophy of modern law
Description
A post-war discussion about the resurgence of natural rights, the Radbroach formula and the problem of an unfair law. Rowles’s theory of fairness and Dvorkin’s interpretative theory of law, the relationship between legal norms and principles. Problems of justice, freedom, equality, human dignity, duty, responsibility, happiness and universal good. The idea of a legal and socially responsible state. |
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
10 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Exam (Written)
Bibliography
Required Reading
1.
Broks, J. 2008. Tiesības filosofija: doktrīnas, koncepcijas, diskursi. 2. pilnveidotais un papildinātais izdevums. Rīga: Biznesa augstskola “Turība”. Avots saglabāts, jo tas ir viens no nedaudzajiem sistemātiskajiem tiesību filozofijas izdevumiem latviešu valodā un tajā ietvertais tiesību filozofijas doktrīnu vēsturiskais un konceptuālais izklāsts joprojām atbilst studiju kursa saturam.
2.
Kriviņš, A. 2020. Tiesību jēdziens un būtība. Rīga: autorizdevums. Obligāti apgūstamās nodaļas no grāmatas: priekšvārds, 4.–5. lpp.; 1.1. nodaļa “Dabisko tiesību koncepcija”, 6.–72. lpp.; 2.1.–2.3. un 2.5. nodaļa, 112.–124. un 128.–134. lpp.; 3.1. nodaļa “Vēsturiskā tiesību koncepcija”, 135.–143. lpp.
3.
Platons. 2015. Dialogi. No sengrieķu valodas tulkojis Ābrams Feldhūns. Rīga: Zinātne. Obligāti apgūstami darbi: “Sokrata aizstāvēšanās (Apoloģija)” un “Kritons”. Avots ir tiesību filozofijas klasikas pirmavots, kura nozīme nav atkarīga no izdošanas gada. Obligāti apgūstami tikai divi konkrēti darbi, kas nepieciešami 2. uzdevuma izpildei.
Additional Reading
1.
Cipeliuss R. 2001. Tiesību būtība. No vācu valodas tulkojusi L. Niedre. Rīga: Latvijas Universitāte. 152 lpp.
2.
Graudiņa E. 2024. Cilvēka dabiskais stāvoklis Hobsa, Loka un Ruso skatījumā. No: Sīlis V., Sīle V. (red.). Filosofiskā antropoloģija. 3. sēj. Rīga: Rīgas Stradiņa universitāte, 25.–54. lpp.
3.
Grigore-Bāra E. 2022. Tiesību filozofija. Nacionālā enciklopēdija. Iegūts no: Nacionālā enciklopēdija [sk. 26.08.2026.].
4.
Grigore-Bāra E. 2015. Johana Georga Eizena (1717–1779) labklājības valsts izpratne apgaismības laikmetā. Latvijas Universitātes žurnāls “Juridiskā zinātne”, Nr. 8, 214.–232. lpp.
5.
Hefe O. 2009. Taisnīgums: filosofisks ievads. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC.
6.
Horns N. Ievads tiesību zinātnē un tiesību filozofijā // Likums un tiesības. – 1999. Nr.1.-4.; 2000. Nr.1.-8.
7.
Kiss J. (sast.). 1998. Mūsdienu politiskā filosofija: hrestomātija. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC.
8.
Kriviņš A. 2026. Hanss Kelzens un normatīvisms. Jurista Vārds, Nr. 2 (1420). ISSN 1691-2462. Iegūts no: Jurista Vārds [sk. 26.08.2026.; abonentiem].
9.
Lazdiņš J. 2006. Vēsturiskā tiesību skola un Latvija. Latvijas Universitātes Raksti, 703, 21.–43. lpp.
10.
Lazdiņš J. 2021. Jānis Pliekšāns tiesību idejas meklējumos Raiņa filozofijā. No: Tiesības un tiesiskā vide mainīgos apstākļos: Latvijas Universitātes 79. starptautiskās zinātniskās konferences rakstu krājums. Rīga: LU Akadēmiskais apgāds, 273.–280.
11.
Levits E. 2003. Par tiesiskās vienlīdzības principu: par līdztiesību likuma un tiesas priekšā un diskriminācijas aizliegumu; par Satversmes 91. pantu. Latvijas Vēstnesis, 8. maijs, Nr. 68 (2833).
12.
Lielbriede L. 2024. Kriminālprocesa mērķa izpratne Monteskjē tiesību filozofijas perspektīvā. No: Brīvības robežu pārskatīšana, dzīvojot apdraudējumu apstākļos. I. Rīga: LU Akadēmiskais apgāds, 107.–116. lpp.
13.
Neimanis J. Ievads tiesībās. Rīga: autora izdevums, 2004. 214 lpp.
14.
Osipova S. 2023. Likumpaklausība. Nacionālā enciklopēdija. Iegūts no: Nacionālā enciklopēdija [sk. 26.08.2026.].
15.
Osipova S. 2024. Tiesiska valsts. Nacionālā enciklopēdija. Iegūts no: Nacionālā enciklopēdija [sk. 26.08.2026.].
16.
Plotnieks A. 2015. Pēteris Stučka un marksistiskās tiesību zinātnes “sākums un beigas”. Jurista Vārds, Nr. 45 (897), 27.–28. lpp. [sk. 26.08.2026.; abonentiem].
17.
Rozenvalds J. 2023. Marksisms, ideoloģija. Nacionālā enciklopēdija. Iegūts no: Nacionālā enciklopēdija [sk. 26.08.2026.].
18.
Snipe A. 2024. Radbruha formula. Nacionālā enciklopēdija. Iegūts no: Nacionālā enciklopēdija [sk. 26.08.2026.].
19.
Šuvajevs I. 2023. Politiskā ētika. Nacionālā enciklopēdija. Iegūts no: Nacionālā enciklopēdija [sk. 26.08.2026.].
20.
Aristotelis. 2025. Nikomaha ētika. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC.
21.
Aristotels. 2026. Valstslietas. No sengrieķu valodas tulkojušas un komentējušas Agnese Irbe un Aija van Hofa; zinātniskais redaktors Arnis Rītups. Strenči: Peripatos. 693 lpp.
22.
Cicero M. T. 1928. On the Laws. In: De re publica; De legibus. Translated by C. W. Keyes. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press; London: William Heinemann. (Loeb Classical Library, 213).
23.
Cicerons M. T. 2009. Par valsti. Tulk. A. Mazlovskis. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC.
24.
Dworkin R. 2013. Taking Rights Seriously. London: Bloomsbury Academic.
25.
Kampanella T. 1980. Saules pilsēta. Rīga: Zvaigzne.
26.
Kants I. 2005. Kas ir apgaismība? Tulk. I. Šuvajevs. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC. Īpaši ieteicami darbi “Atbilde uz jautājumu: kas ir apgaismība?”, “Par teicienu: tas var būt pareizi teorijā, bet neder praksei” un “Mūžīgu mieru”.
27.
Kant I. 2017. The Metaphysics of Morals. 2nd ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
28.
Locke J. 1764. Two Treatises of Civil Government. Ed. T. Hollis. London: A. Millar et al.
29.
Makjavelli N. 2024. Valdnieks. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC.
30.
Montesquieu C. L. de Secondat, Baron de. 1777. The Spirit of Laws. Trans. T. Nugent. No: The Complete Works of M. de Montesquieu. Vols. 1–2. London: T. Evans and W. Davis.
31.
Mors T. 2026. Utopija. Tulk. D. Vanaga. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC.
32.
Hart H. L. A. 2012. The Concept of Law. 3rd ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
33.
Hobbes T. 1909. Leviathan. Reprinted from the edition of 1651; with an essay by W. G. Pogson Smith. Oxford: Clarendon Press.
34.
Plato. 1926. Laws. Translated by R. G. Bury. 2 vols. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press; London: William Heinemann. (Loeb Classical Library, 187 and 192).
35.
Platons. 2001. Valsts. 2., labotais un papildinātais izdevums. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC.
36.
Razs Dž. 2001. Brīvības morāle. Tulk. Z. Rozenberga. Rīga: Madris. 399 lpp. (Cilvēks un sabiedrība).
37.
Rawls J. 1999. A Theory of Justice. Revised ed. Cambridge, MA: The Belknap Press of Harvard University Press. 560 p.
38.
Ruso Ž. Ž. 2013. Par sabiedrisko līgumu jeb politisko tiesību principi. Tulk. I. Auziņa. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC.
Other Information Sources
1.
Latvijas Republikas Satversme. Pieņemta 15.02.1922.
2.
Cilvēka tiesību un pamatbrīvību aizsardzības konvencija. Pieņemta 04.11.1950.
3.
Apvienoto Nāciju Organizācijas Vispārējā cilvēktiesību deklarācija. Pieņemta 10.12.1948.
4.
Latvijas Republikas Satversmes tiesa. Ierosinātās un izskatītās lietas.
5.
Latvijas Republikas Augstākā tiesa. Judikatūras nolēmumu arhīvs.
6.
Latvijas Republikas Augstākā tiesa. Eiropas Cilvēktiesību tiesas nolēmumu arhīvs.
7.
Tieslietu ministrija. Valsts vienotais jurista profesionālās kvalifikācijas eksāmens.