Sem 1: Law and its functions in society Flashcards
What is the law ?
A set of rules by the government which each country must follow
By having laws, what does this allow ?
It allows members of society to behave in a particular way and so can be seen as an order as the law tells people what to do. Failure to follow laws or even breaking laws could lead to punishments i.e., going to prison
What is the role of law in society ?
To provide the foundation of which individuals and groups can interact safely promoting justice.
What does the law do ?
It shapes societal norms and values allowing solidarity between societies.
What would happen if we didnt have laws ?
Individuals wouldn’t get along, nor would society be the way it is and so this would lead to more crimes and deaths
Grenfell Podcast as an example of this - brief synopsis
The Grenfell podcast is based on the fire which engulfed the building causing many deaths with over seventy injured. It was known to be the biggest fire in Britain as it went on for many weeks with the victims facing structural violence and inequality. The Grenfell building has a long history of negligence, as suggested by one report which stated that foam insulation was the main cause of the fire spreading as the foam was a combustible material and the government was responsible for not looking into the flammable materials placed within the building. The story of Grenfell is about those who survived, resistance and solidarity of the community and meaningful justice.
What does the grenfell podcast make us think of and how does it link to law and society ?
One point the Grenfell podcast makes me think about linking to law and society in particular is the relation of social inequality within the law, since the Grenfell tower consisted of those from disadvantaged; low-income backgrounds. It shows how the disaster presents social inequality as most of the law is the cause of these inequalities and so makes me question the fact whether justice is accessible for everyone in society or just those from privileged backgrounds.
