Philosophical and Linguistic Sources of Herbert L. A. Hart’s Theory of Law

Abstract

The paper presents H. L. A. Hart as a leading exponent of the analytic orientation in legal philosophy. Hart showed that the principles and methods of analytic philosophy yield fruitful implications to law, where they may foster fresh ideas and innovative solutions. The text emphasizes the linguistic aspect of Hart’s works; his achievements in legal theory are discussed in the context of the principles of ordinary language philosophy.

Keywords

• analytic philosophy
• ordinary language philosophy
• open texture
• performative use of language
• causation in law