Normative Legal Philosophy is a branch of legal theory that focuses on the moral and ethical foundations of law. It examines what laws ought to be, rather than just what they are, exploring concepts like justice, rights, and obligations. This field seeks to establish standards for evaluating legal systems and their effectiveness in promoting fairness and social order.
Key figures in this area include H.L.A. Hart and Ronald Dworkin, who have contributed significantly to discussions about the relationship between law and morality. Normative Legal Philosophy helps to inform debates on issues such as human rights and social justice, guiding lawmakers and society in creating just legal frameworks.