... the theory chooses to disregard the totality of a society in which law plays a relatively restricted, though important, role. To abstract from a consideration of the law its surrounding social and political factors is, it is argued, virtually impossible, even if it were desirable. Law does not exist as an isolate: it is affected in considerable measure by the dynamic nature of the community of which it is a part a perusal of any aspect of our common law and current legislation indicated the difficulties inherent in any attempt at investigating the law as a phenomenon 'in itself'. Thus, the law relating to theft may have little 'meaning' save as an expression of communal ethical attitudes to the ownership and possession of property. The European Communities Act 1972 expressed political and economic ideologies. The Children Act 1989 articulates deep and complex concepts of the community's social responsibilities. Remove discussion ...

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