What Is Law? – In Search of Method

This paper examines key methodological issues in legal theory by addressing tensions between competing theoretical approaches. It argues against the pursuit of grand, all-encompassing theories of law and instead advocates for a gradual, problem-oriented understanding of legal phenomena. The paper challenges the assumption that a valid theory of law must apply universally to all legal systems, contending that theoretical claims should be context-specific to the normative systems examined. It also explores the role of empirical inputs in legal theorising, suggesting that while empirical justification is valuable, it need not require prior scientific data collection. Overall, the paper promotes a modest, context-sensitive, and methodologically flexible approach to jurisprudence.