Law as a Force for Social Progress

Abstract

In the study and practice of law there is one basic tension that constantly recurs. That is the tension between law as an occupation and law as a mission. This tension makes itself felt in law school, permeates the scene in private practice, dominates the legal academic world, and is central to any career in government legal service. Law as an occupation involves the use of law as an instrument for carrying on the social order in its current form. Law as a mission seeks to utilize the concept of law and legal institutions as a means of achieving new social goals. Many lawyers, perhaps most, engage in both forms of legal activity. Nevertheless, the underlying tension remains and, especially at this stage in your legal life, forces itself upon your attention.