Meaning and Concept of the Purpose of Law
The purpose of law is to regulate human conduct, maintain social order, and ensure justice within society. Law acts as a guiding force that defines rights, duties, and obligations of individuals and institutions. It seeks to balance individual freedom with collective welfare so that society can function smoothly. Without law, there would be chaos, insecurity, and uncertainty. Jurists view law not merely as commands or rules, but as a social institution created to serve human needs and aspirations. Thus, the primary purpose of law is to create an orderly, peaceful, and just society.
Social Order, Justice, and Protection of Rights
One of the key purposes of law is the maintenance of social order by preventing conflicts and resolving disputes through recognized legal mechanisms. Law protects fundamental rights and liberties, ensuring equality before law and fairness in treatment. In India, Article 14 of the Constitution of India guarantees equality before law, while Article 21 protects life and personal liberty, reflecting the law’s role in safeguarding human dignity. Law also aims to deliver justice—social, economic, and political—by correcting wrongs and providing remedies to those whose rights are violated.
Control, Development, and Social Change
Law serves as an instrument of social control by prescribing acceptable behavior and imposing sanctions for violations. At the same time, it acts as a tool for social change and development. Through welfare legislation, labour laws, environmental laws, and social justice statutes, law reforms outdated customs and promotes progressive values. Jurists like Roscoe Pound emphasized law as a means of social engineering, balancing competing interests in society. Hence, the purpose of law extends beyond control to include growth, reform, and adaptation to changing social needs.
Real-Time Illustration
A real-time example of the purpose of law can be seen in labour welfare legislation such as minimum wage laws. These laws aim to protect workers from exploitation, ensure fair remuneration, and promote social justice. Similarly, environmental laws regulate industrial activity to protect public health and natural resources. These examples show how law functions to maintain order, protect rights, and promote societal welfare simultaneously.
Mnemonic for Easy Recall
A simple mnemonic to remember the purpose of law is “OJSP”.
O – Order in society
J – Justice delivery
S – Social control and change
P – Protection of rights
Call to Action
The purpose of law is a fundamental topic in jurisprudence and is frequently asked in LLB, CLAT PG, and judicial service examinations. A clear understanding of this concept helps students frame analytical answers linking law with society, justice, and constitutional values. For more exam-oriented jurisprudence topics explained with constitutional provisions, juristic views, real-life illustrations, and easy mnemonics, visit lawgana.in. Enhance your conceptual clarity and exam performance by exploring lawgana.in today.
