What is a commonly accepted definition of law?

The commonly accepted definition of law refers to it as a set of established and enforced rules by government. This highlights the authoritative nature of law, as it is created and upheld by governmental bodies to maintain order, regulate conduct, and provide a framework for resolving disputes. Laws are not merely suggestions but are backed by the power of enforcement, which gives them their defining characteristic.

While societal norms do influence the creation of laws, they are not solely defined by those norms; rather, it is the government that formally recognizes, codifies, and enforces them. This enforcability aspect distinguishes laws from other concepts like personal behavior guidelines or subjective opinions on justice.

Understanding law in this governance context emphasizes the role of public authority and the social contract between the state and its citizens, which establishes clear expectations for behavior and the consequences for failing to adhere to them.