Doctrine refers to a set of beliefs or principles that are officially accepted and taught by a particular group, often in religious, legal, or political contexts. It serves as a guiding framework for followers, helping them understand and interpret their values and actions. For example, the Christian Doctrine outlines core beliefs about faith, morality, and the nature of God.
In legal contexts, doctrine can refer to established legal principles that guide court decisions. These doctrines help ensure consistency and predictability in the law. An example is the Doctrine of Precedent, which dictates that courts should follow previous rulings in similar cases to maintain stability in the legal system.