Law is a set of rules that govern human behaviour and relationships. It is enforced by governments or other social institutions, and it sets out rights, duties and responsibilities for individuals and groups. It is a complex concept and is subject to wide interpretation, with its precise definition a source of longstanding controversy. Some have described it as simply power backed by threats, while others view the law as a system of justice and public order that holds all government officials accountable to the people.
The law reflects cultural and economic values and may change over time. It includes a range of topics, from censorship and criminal law to labour law and property law. It can also be studied at a theoretical level, exploring concepts such as morality and law or the relationship between the law and justice.
Different systems of law exist around the world. For example, civil law systems, found on all continents except Antarctica, use Roman and canon laws, with a broad range of categories, principles and rules, and often supplement them with local custom and culture. Common law systems, on the other hand, place more emphasis on the individual and promote cooperation between people.
A central principle of the rule of law is that all government agencies and offices are subject to law. This means that they must abide by laws that are publicly promulgated and easily accessible, and that they treat people fairly and equally. It also ensures that core human, property and contract rights are protected.