LAW IS OLDER THAN LEGISLATION
Legislation, or the process of creating laws, came much later in human history compared to the existence of law itself, which has always been linked to human society. Law comprises the enforced rules that help maintain peace among individuals. Before formal language developed, people adhered to unwritten rules to be accepted in their communities. Initially, both the rules governing nature and those governing human behavior were seen as eternal truths beyond human control, often attributed to a supernatural creator.
Over time, modern perspectives have shifted, leading many to believe that all laws are products of legislative acts. However, this idea is misleading, as laws existed long before people realized they could create or change them. Historical evidence and studies in ethology and cultural anthropology suggest that law originated from societal needs and evolved organically, rather than solely from the intentions of lawmakers. Understanding these older roots can help challenge the idea that laws are merely created by humans through conscious design.
Legislation, or the process of creating laws, came much later in human history compared to the existence of law itself, which has always been linked to human society. Law comprises the enforced rules that help maintain peace among individuals. Before formal language developed, people adhered to unwritten rules to be accepted in their communities. Initially, both the rules governing nature and those governing human behavior were seen as eternal truths beyond human control, often attributed to a supernatural creator.
Over time, modern perspectives have shifted, leading many to believe that all laws are products of legislative acts. However, this idea is misleading, as laws existed long before people realized they could create or change them. Historical evidence and studies in ethology and cultural anthropology suggest that law originated from societal needs and evolved organically, rather than solely from the intentions of lawmakers. Understanding these older roots can help challenge the idea that laws are merely created by humans through conscious design.