Home Legal Terminology Definition of Jurisprudence

Definition of Jurisprudence

Definition of Jurisprudence

 Jurisprudence is vital to understanding law and legal systems. The term refers to the philosophy of law and the science of law. Individuals who study jurisprudence attempt to comprehend legal institutions and the nature of law. Through the study of jurisprudence, individuals develop questions that are important to the advancement of our legal systems. 
For instance, these scholars seek to understand fundamental problems within the legal system and associated complications that arise from social and political circumstances. Understanding these problems and conditions is the first step necessary to improve legal systems and institutions. Without the study of jurisprudence, we would not understand legal philosophy or theory. We would not recognize how social situations and social stigmas affect the criminal justice system, and without this knowledge, we could not take steps to improve the system.